By Spy Uganda
Police are actively investigating a violent incident that erupted at the Democratic Party (DP) headquarters in Kampala as the party gears up for its delegates conference this weekend.
The clashes broke out during a press conference on Balintuma Road, resulting in multiple injuries and significant property damage. Several DP officials, including Bunyoro Regional Representative Grace Asiimwe, Eastern Regional Vice President Sammy Gilbert, and DP Women’s League Secretary Annet Nakyanja — the sister of former Youth Minister Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi — have been identified among the mob by footage captured by journalists and party officials.
Notably, Kennedy Mutenyo, Chairman of the DP Elections Management Committee, suffered a dislocated elbow and is currently receiving medical care. Agrippa Byayesu, the DP Administrator, was reportedly strangled in the melee and is also undergoing treatment.
The violence was reportedly sparked by supporters of Bukoto Central MP Richard Sebamala. Sebamala, who had invested heavily in his bid for the party’s presidency, was disqualified for failing to meet constitutional requirements, including the stipulation of ten years of active party membership. Similarly, Charles Zziwa was barred from contesting for the position of National Vice President due to insufficient academic qualifications and failure to meet the ten-year membership requirement.
Despite the clashes and disqualifications, over 31 candidates have been declared unopposed, including Fred Mukasa Mbidde, who has secured the position of National Vice President.
The DP delegates conference is scheduled to take place from Thursday, May 29 to Saturday, May 31 at the Asamar Country Resort in Ruti, Mbarara City. The conference is expected to be hotly contested, with heightened political tensions ahead of the crucial elections.
