PRESS RELEASE
Dear Ugandans,
The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda condemns the violence and hooliganism associated with electioneering in which lives are lost, people are barbarically arrested and tortured and property destroy.
Electioneering is a constitutional right and the legal procedure is will stipulated that governs the entire process. The elections are an attribute of democracy and it is important that people are granted their right to safely solicit votes for their candidates, and decide on who they want to lead them without intimidation or any other form of duress.
The fact that the recent by-elections led to the loss of human lives and destruction of property; and the rest and torture of people to deformity is a clear indicator that there is a lot of unvented anger that often bursts out when ever a simple difference in opinion comes up.
It is unfortunate that in a country whose national motto is “For God and My Country,” people with different political orientations cannot tolerate each other! We should all remember that violence begets violence and it is ultimately a lose-lose situation for all parties.
We, therefore, call upon the government whose major obligation is to protect the people and their property to do the following;
– Ensure that the members of parliament, their supporters and other persons arrested during the Arua electioneering are treated with dignity in accordance with their rights and that they access justice through open courts of law.
– Desist from the use of excessive force while controlling chaotic situations, especially during electioneering processes.
– Respect the constitutional right of very player in the country for we are all Ugandans with full rights in a peaceful and secure environment.
We, the Religious Leaders under the umbrella of the Inter-religious council of Uganda;
Wish to condemn the reported attack on the presidential envoy which, according to media reports, was the cause of the fracas. This is because the president is a fountain of honor.
Caution political leaders, campaign leaders and the public to desist from hooliganism and use of provocative statements or languages during electoral campaigns.
Are cognisant of our history as stipulated in the constitution, and wish to counsel Ugandans both the ruling party and the opposition to recall our history and exercise restrain no matter the provocation so that we all adhere to the pledge of a better future for our beloved country.
As religious leaders professing our prophetic voice and counsel, we think it is time for the people of Uganda to sit at a round table and talk, be listened to and be heard. As Ugandans, the animosity and political immaturity exhibited by our political leaders due to diversity in political opinion, does not give hope for a better Uganda today or in the future.
Finally, we would like to extend our sincere sympathies to all those injured and wish them quick and full recovery. For those who have passed on, may their souls rest on eternal peace! At the same time, we appeal to the citizens, politicians and government actors to act with calm, restrain and understanding to ensure that peace and stability reign in the country.
