The Acholi top political leader, Prof Ogenga Latigo has condemned the violent attack on National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, alias Bobi Wine, while campaigning in Gulu last week.
According to Ogenga, “The incident in Gulu should not be looked at in isolation because the day before, the NUP candidate was denied the opportunity to address rallies in Nwoya district.”
Prof. Ogenga Latigo has called on the police to immediately arrest a lady whose video appeared on social media, stating that she is mobilizing boda bodas and goons (aguu) in Gulu to prevent Kyagulanyi and NUP from campaigning in the area.
Prof. Ogenga notes that similar incidents occurred in Nwoya district, where the NUP candidate was denied the opportunity to address rallies.
He believes the recent incident in Gulu was premeditated, citing the vandalism of the NUP office in Gulu on Thursday.
He expressed frustration, saying, “Whoever wants to cause violence in Acholi for things they don’t want is regrettable and unacceptable.
He added that he has shared his concerns with senior government officials, and they agree that what happened in Gulu was regrettable.
Ogenga also sent a strong warning, stating that nobody should ever repeat what happened to Bobi Wine in Gulu again, “We are prepared to let it go this time, but nobody should repeat it.
He also cautioned the police, ”If campaigns are allowed, all presidential candidates should be given priority. The police cannot dictate; they are not looking for votes. Their role is to ensure security, not dictate which route to take.”
The violent attack left several people injured and shops looted in broad day light by unidentified hired goons causing loses to the business community in Gulu City.
