Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-08 03:26:18
President Yoweri Museveni was in attendance at the 50th marriage anniversary celebration of former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi and his wife, Jacqueline Mbabazi. The event took place at Serena Hotel Kampala where family and friends gathered to commemorate the couple’s 50 years of marriage. However, the joyous occasion turned sour when at least eight members of the Crane Performers, a cultural entertainment group, were arrested by police for allegedly insulting President Museveni during his speech.
As President Museveni addressed the guests around 11 pm, some members of the Crane Performers reportedly shouted at him in Runyankole, a local language. The words, ‘Rutabandana Waturusya Rugahamuzindaro,’ loosely translated as “you’re over-speaking, we are tired, leave the microphone,” were uttered, causing shock among the attendees. Lt. Tonny Komakech, a member of the Special Forces Command (SFC), witnessed the incident and noted that the Crane Performers were disrespecting the president.
Subsequently, the members of the Crane Performers, including their director Gordon Kayovu, were swiftly apprehended and taken to Kampala Central police station. The arrested individuals were identified as Edward Tugume, David Muvunyi, Walter Oleng, Simon Bebwa, Paul Ruduli, and Tonny Okello. A case file with charges of insulting the person of the president was opened against the suspects.
The suspects and witnesses were interviewed, and their statements recorded in the presence of the SFC. The directorate of forensic science (DFS) was called in to profile and fingerprint the suspects at CPS. Despite tensions and SFC’s involvement in the process, a directive was given to release the suspects on police bond, particularly because Gordon Kayovu, the group’s director, is known to be a staunch supporter of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.
The situation surrounding the arrest and subsequent handling of the Crane Performers brought attention to the tight security measures in place during the anniversary celebration. The incident highlighted the sensitivity of political expressions and the consequences of disrespecting high-ranking officials. While the Crane Performers’ actions may have been perceived as a form of protest or dissent, the response from law enforcement and security forces emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and respect during public events.
Overall, the 50th marriage anniversary celebration of Amama Mbabazi and his wife was marred by the unfortunate incident involving the Crane Performers and their alleged insult towards President Museveni. The aftermath of the arrests shed light on the intricacies of politics, security, and freedom of expression in Uganda’s social landscape. As the suspects await further legal proceedings, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between individual rights and societal expectations in a politically charged environment.
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