Uganda’s Security Minister, Gen. Elly Tumwine has defended the use of firearms in the recent by-elections.
Addressing journalists at Uganda Media Centre, Gen Tumwine said: “: If your actions are going to cause violence against others. A firearm can be used. If you resist arrest, it can be used. If you try to escape, firearms can also be used. So, let’s be lawful.”
He asked young people to learn from old ones.
“They (old people) are knowledgeable and experienced. In other countries, they learn from elders. Us in the army we humbly salute Commanders. I don’t mean youth shouldn’t talk but work for the future. Don’t create barriers,” he added.
He said Uganda Police is investigating cases of intimidation, Violence, assault and rape that occurred during the recently concluded Arua Municipality by-election.
He also accused the media of sentencing people without investigations.
“We’ve disciplined our soldiers without media even knowing. I’m a very tough disciplinarian and that doesn’t mean I’m not friendly to people. You stoned the President’s car and few were injured,” he said.
On recent battering of journalists by security officers, Tumwine said: “The moment you go into the rain, you have chances of getting wet not some few. I was once in war, I wasn’t tortoured but I was injured. Once we’re in a riot situation, anything can happen and these are occupational hazards. We shall continue working with you media.”
