Police Clash With Protestors Over Election Dispute

Patrick Okaba and Felix Warom

2 June 2011

Police in Nebbi yesterday engaged in running battles with protesters who attempted to block what they described as a controversial swearing-in of the new district chairperson.

Protesters loyal to Mr William Alenyo (Ind) who marched on the streets and wanted to block the swearing-in of Mr Robert Okumu (NRM), were dispersed before they could enter the venue.

The swearing-in was organised after Mr Okumu was gazetted on Tuesday and Mr Alenyo degazetted. Mr Okumu was, however, gazetted after High Court Judge Joseph Mulangira lifted an interim order that sought to stop Mr Okumu from being gazetted.

Protesters then responded by confronting the police with stones and burning tyres.

The police retaliated by firing live bullets and teargas. The protestors blocked roads with stones and logs.

However, amid the confusion, the swearing-in went on as planned.

There was more confusion when the police fired teargas canisters in the classrooms of Nebbi High College.

Two people were injured and 20 arrested. The Regional Police Commander, Mr Samuel Okot, said no deaths were reported.

Pilgrims travelling to Namugongo were also blocked as the protesters barricaded roads for about 30 minutes.

Mr Alenyo said the swearing-in was illegal. “How can the CAO and police stop me from being sworn-in when other people were sworn-in when they had cases in courts?” he asked.

Mr Okumu, who initially lost the election and conceded defeat, later sued Mr Alenyo and the Electoral Commission, citing irregularities.

The then Nebbi Chief Magistrate, Mr John Agaba, ordered a recount which overturned the earlier results in Mr Okumu’s favour.

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