“President Zuma does not respect our democracy” – Bokamoso by Mmusi Maimane

Fifth day of Presidential Rallies with issues between the Media and the NRM + KCCA saga continues.

Poster-power

Today it’s the fifth presidential rallies in Uganda. The first working week is over and the rallies will continue. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is not riding in military vehicles, instead sending the NTV packing for their so-called biased views on the rallies. Then he does love the New Vision today who had a 5-page special on the NRM. There more deflections from the party. I will not spill all the beans. So keep on reading!

Quote of day:

“If you vote for somebody who gives some money, that person may not have the capacity to address you core interest” – Yoweri Kaguta Museveni

NRM 13.11.15 Omunge

NRM Rallies and other issues:

NRM and Media:

Museveni expels NTV from his media team after what he called unbalanced reporting on him. As per now, NTV journalists are being escorted back to Kampala by soldiers of the Special Forces Command. Daily monitor was also warned of a possible closure should their reporting continue to ‘favour’ the opposition ‘against’ Mr. Museveni.

Dr. Livingstone Sewanyana needed to have dialogue with the media houses of New Vision and Bukedde about the current concerns the coverage of the campaigns. Dr.Sewanyana is a member of CCEDU, so he surely wanted to discuss the 5-page piece directly on the NRM rallies yesterday and not much about the other parties in that paper today.

NRM Demonstration 13.11.15

Demonstration from the guys making NRM dummy plane for NRM Rallies:

For this dummy of a ‘plane’, the ‘manufacturers’ were reportedly contracted for Shs 400m to have this ‘crowd-puller’ at all President Museveni’s campaign rallies. Having not seen even a coin so far, a group of about 15 youths today stormed Kololo Independence grounds to take back their ‘plane’ but were ordered to back off by the mean-looking military police guards. So mean, the guards were, they threatened to beat up and break the journalists’ cameras who had been tipped off about the demo – warning; “for us, we are not your ordinary policemen”

Yoweri Kaguta Museveni had a rally at Omuge School in Bala Sub-County. Where he said: “Government to set up and maintain boreholes”.

NRM 13.11.15 Kole South

NRM campaign in Kole South there was even UPC Officials was endorsing the President. At Benson Ogwal Obua the UPC spokesman has told the NRM Caucus and at the Rally that the UPC votes in the Lango Sub-County should vote NRM. Jimmy Akena of the UPC said this about TDA today: “Our instance on lowering our flag at TDA offices was because we hadn’t agreed to join the alliance. Party hadn’t agreed” (…)”I can’t make a decision on behalf of the UPC. Such decision are made by the party. Currently, we’re listening to both sides” (…)”We are listening to all voices. Our purpose in this election is to restructure the party and target 2021” (NBS TV).

He had a rally at Apac.

NRM members in Mbarara deflect to FDC:

“About 200 angry supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement in Mbarara district this morning denounced the party and proclaimed support for the Forum for Democratic Change” (…)”The supporters led by Bitekyerezo’s chief campaigner Polly Katwiire gathered at Mbarara independence grounds before the Deputy RDC Jimmy Kateera and started destroying their party cards” (…)”They accused Chairman Jomo Mugabe of altering the election results and going ahead to publicly brag about it” (Nahamya, 2015).

NRM members and even FDC members from the Masaka deflect to Go-Forward:

“More NRM party members, including councillors from Masaka sub-region, have defected to the Go-Forward camp, declaring their support for Mr Amama Mbabazi’s presidential bid” (…)”Among the defectors were Dr Shanon Kakungulu, who represented Masaka Municipality in the 6th Parliament on NRM ticket, Ms Salama Nakandi, Bukomansimbi District speaker, and Mr Andrew Mutebi, the youth councilor” (…)”Others are Mr Daniel Ssejoba, a councillor for Lwabenge Sub-county in Kalungu District, Mr Raymond Sserunkuuma, an aspirant for the Masaka Municipality MP seat and Mr George William Bbuye. The political wave also snatched Hajj Musa Mutebi, the FDC chairperson for Lukaya Town council” (Ssekweeyama, 2015).

FDC:

Besigye Kaliro 13.11.15

Dr. Kizza Besigye in Kaliro at Lyantonde District:

«How can 19 women die every day and then u find women singing no Change? That would be singing no change to your grave”.

Dr. Kizza Besigye said this at Katovu:

“Why should we have a parliament of 400 MPs! Only 150 members can be enough. We will reduce the cost of administration and do away with unnecessary expenditure. We will not have RDCs and presidential advisors. We shall only have 20 cabinet ministers and 20 state ministers. These ministers will be the presidential advisors.”

FDC Lyantonde 13.11.15

Dr. Kizza Besigye said this at Katovu in Lyantonde District:  

“We will reduce the cost of administration and do away with unnecessary expenditure. We will not have RDCs and, Presidential advisors. We shall only have 20 cabinet ministers and 20 state ministers. These ministers will be the presidential advisors. After we have cut the cost of public administration. All that money will then be brought to service delivery. Why should we have a parliament of 400 mps?! Only 150 ‘mps can be enough”.

FDC 13.11.15

FDC’s Kizza Besigye at Katovu…now headed to Mpumudde for the first rally of the day.

Dr. Kizza Besigye statement after the rallies today:

“Thank you Lwengo and Lyantonde for receiving us, we appreciate that you are all fired up to usher in the change we all deserve. ‪#‎WesigeBesigye”.

13.11.15 Lyantonde FDC

TIC Candidates – Maureen Kyala statement today:

“It would be injustice to myself and my country not thank my friends in the media for the voluntary and patriotic excellent job of giving me constant millage and coverage and talk-shows all thru. I value every effort you make yet surely even my press Secretary is struggling on his own to make every coordination. I now know who the patriots of this nation are and the struggle has just started. I am sorry to mention a few, Andrew Gulumaire Andrew, Mbajjwe Rodgers, Kimalyo Tom, Uncle Meddie, Aldon Walukamba, Moses Bikala, Antony Palapande, Ivan Lubega, Donald Kirya, Denis Edema, Joseph Gwina, Bakaki, Yazid Yolisigira Tausi Kizito, David Lukakamwa, Baleke Baleke Trevor Solomon John Magezi and Rachael Wambuzi, any way the list is long. Andrew Gulumaire, you deserve a special thanks, Your my strength.Tomorrow it’s Busia and Tororo”

Today Maureen Faith Kyala had a campaign together with Elton Joseph Mubirizi was in Luuka and Namutumba.

Abed Bwanika held his rallies in Jinja district today!

Gen Benon Binaaro said on his rally today:

“My government will be a government of action, not a government of hoodwinking farmers every year with promises of NAADS funds”. He had his campaign in Bugisu today and also in Sironko and Mbaale.

Professor Baryamureeba’s campaign:

“2016 presidential candidate Venansius Baryamureeba says campaigns will slow down the economy because Ugandans are staying away from work to attend rallies. Professor Barya cites this as reason behind his decision to suspend rallies and resort to door-to-door engagement, online — especially Facebook and Twitter — and broadcast methods of campaigning” (NBS TV).

Go Forward 13.11.2015

Go-Forward rallies:

Amama Mbabazi said this today: “Land grabbing is a problem in Uganda”.

Go Forward 13.11.2015 P3

Go Forward 13.11.2015 Luwero Campaign

Message to Luweero:

“Thank you Luwero for welcoming me with open arms. We must continue to engage on issues that affect the community. Once again I would like to emphasize that we must tackle issues of veterans compensation; Forward linkages especially agro-processing of the main crops in the area (pineapples and oranges), cooperatives especially with regard to financing of agriculture as well as having adequate Health Centers 3 and 4 that serve the community”.

Go Forward 13.11.2015 P2

Side-note:

IPOD the platform where all parties that have representation in Parliament NRM inclusive is holding a special Council meeting today at 2pm.

The Agenda

KCCA Amendment bill

The abnormal increase of Nomination fees

Side-note 2 – NRM Primaries:

There will be a by-election in Rwampara in Mbarara District, after Vincent Kyamadidi contested the NRM Primaries and the earlier polls in the region.

The Electoral Commission 13.11.15 Photo

Side-note 3 – Kampala Election:

Nominations of Lord Mayor and deputy hopefuls previously slated for November 16. This is deferred to the Minster of the Kampala is yet to guid the Electoral Commission.

Side-note 4 – Erias Lukwago statement today:

“I picked the nomination forms for the position of the Lord Mayor a couple of weeks ago and set out to collect the requisite endorsement or signatures from the voters. On Wednesday this week, I proceeded to the EC offices and submitted the duly signed forms to the Kampala District Returning Officer, Charles Ntege, and booked my nomination for monday 16th November at 11:00am. Once that process was set into motion, Mr. Badru Kiggundu exhausted all his powers to reverse or halt it, and, accordingly, he is not at all seized with prerogatives to call it off on such spurious grounds that he is waiting for the enactment into law of what I would aptly term as the ”LUKWAGO BILL” that was tabled in parliament by Hon. Ruhindi . I wish therefore to inform all and sundry that our nomination programme is still on as earlier arranged”.

That’s enough. Peace!

Reference:

Nahamya, Joshua – ‘Mbarara: 200 NRM Supporters Turn to FDC’ (13.11.2015) link http://www.chimpreports.com/mbarara-200-nrm-supporters-turn-to-fdc/ :

Ssekweeyama, Martins E. – ‘Masaka NRM leaders cross to Amama’ (13.11.2015) link: http://www.monitor.co.ug/News/National/Masaka-NRM-leaders-cross-to-Amama/-/688334/2954576/-/ka4ocrz/-/index.html

CORD on Nkaissery’s remarks Media Freedom (Youtube-Clip)

Uganda: Secretary to the treasury, Muhakanizi defends Public Finance Act (Youtube-Clip)

Fourth Day of Presidential Rallies in Uganda + Electoral Commission Rigging leaks

M7 121115

In which nation is it natural that the President who campaigns rides around in Personal Armored Carrier in Abletong. While Dr. Kizza Besigye had a special day on the road helping other traffic and vehicles to cross broken bridge in the Kanungu district. Later he held rallies in the area. Professor has turned into social media. Maureen Kyala continued to campaign in Jinja. Ben Binaro has even had a campaign and the first campaign day for Abed Bwainiko in Kairo and Budaka! Congrats, welcome to the race and Go-Forward was in Luweero today! And here are the details, also so side-notes. Not as sad as yesterday, though the ones caring for the economic future for Uganda should mourn. But let’s take a look!

TDA said this today:

“Today, Dr. Besigye and the FDC team winding up a rally in Kanungu while Hon. Mbabazi and the Go Forward team have effectively engaged Luwero. Each one of them committing to bring about change and create conditions for equal opportunity and shared prosperity”.

Quote of the Day:

“Amama Mbabazi is working with Electoral Commission to rig elections and he has people everywhere intimidating my supporters. I will not accept the results if EC declare Mbabazi or Kizza Besigye. We need an independent EC “ – Yoweri Kaguta Museveni teold NRM CEC Members.

Besigye Kanungu 121115

FDC Rallies today:

Dr. Kizza-Besigye Wrn and the FDC Team are stuck in Kanungu because of the broken bridge. After 30 years, NRM is proud to preside our a broken infrastructure system. We can’t wait to sort out this mess. Kigwa Leero

Finally,‪the FDC has resumed the journey on the Kabare-Kanungu road after the cars were pushed across a broken bridge . Dr Besigye will be addressing a number of meetings in the district before the final rally in the afternoon. We shall overcome,some day (40 minutes later).

At Kihihi Town rally Dr. Kizza Besigye said this:

“”When this corrupt government is out of power next year in May, the tarmac road that started from Ntungamo and ended in Rukungiri will be extended up to here Kanungu and up to the boarder We have an elaborate policy alternative on building infrastructure like roads that facilitate free movement of persons,goods and services”.

FDC Kihihi 121115

Towards the Kanungu Town the crowds went in procession and meeting the FDC team in the town following the rallying team for party towards the venue where the rally supposed to happen. It will be where Dr. Kizza Besigye is about to have the final rally for the day. He had police escort into town when they finally arrived after struggling on the washed away roads.

Kanungu 121115 Town

Message from Dr. Kizza Besigye after Kanugu rallies:

“To the men, women, young people and brave children that defied the rains in Kanungu we say thank you as Forum for Democratic Change – FDC, we believe that our nation is in need of that same spirit that we felt and saw in Kanungu where rains couldn’t stop us as a people from the change that we all deserve. The poor road network in the region speaks for itself, but together with a hand we can change the bad state of social services in Kanungu because we belong to a nation with a lot of resources. ‪#‎AreYouReady? ‪#‎IamReady ‪#‎WesigeBesigye”.

M7 121115 P2

NRM rallies today:

In Abletong he drove with Personal Armored Carriers in the area to get to the venue in Abletong to have his rally! He needed the Army vehicles to get around and he has been in charge since 1986.

M7 121115 Lira and Alebtong

He had also a rally in Lira. The venue of the rally was the Golf Course in town.

Kyala 121115

TIC candidates:

Joseph Mabirizi still claims that the Police have refuted his kidnap story; he has told NBS TV that he has no reason to lie and will not be shaken.

Maureen Faith Kyala held rallies in Kamuli today and later today in Jinja.

The Prof’s campaign:

Professor Baryamureeba has official suspended his campaign, but after a day he has taken it to social media. “Has refuted claims that he has quit the race. Barya says he had only paused his campaigns, citing security concerns but vows to continue with his ambitions for the presidency. He has appealed to the Electoral Commission to ensure that candidates, especially those who don’t enjoy the benefits that come with incumbency, are supported” (NBS TV Uganda).

Today’s quote from the Prof:

Prof Baryamureeba said; “People are obsessed with public rallies. I know some people have become rally fans. They only contribute to 15 per cent of the voters yet less than 50 per cent of them actually vote. My concentration now is on the more than 70 per cent of the voters in villages and in gardens digging”.

Another General:

“Benon Biraaro, is set to hold his first rally in Budaka. Delayed harmonisation, on his part, of his campaign programme set him four days behind” (NBS TV Uganda).

Another candidate:

Abed Bwanika has held his campaign rallies in Kairo with a message of change. Also in the Budaka as well if you wondered where he was trying to hunt for votes.

Amama 121115 Wobulenzi

Go-Forward Rally:

They had a rally that was stopped by the Police in the Wobulenzi and the crowds were cut off by the UPF. They even beat some of the crowds who were wearing Amama Mbabazi T-shirts. Surely the Police have learned a lot by the NRM-Regime in the area.

Amama 121115 P3

Amama Mbabazi said this:

“Poverty Stinks! We need to fight it. We will give you an idea how we intend to do that”.

He had a rally in Matuga as well.

Amama 121115 P2

A move to Go-Forward from Dr. Kizza Besigye:

DP’s Brenda Nabukenya trounced NRM’s Rebecca Nalwanga.

But in this election, I saw FDC’s Kiiza Besigye working so tirelessly to see Nabukenya wins. He fronted the idea of having a one joint Opposition candidate and defended it so Fiercely that’s why his party did not bring any one to contest against her. He moved with her to the trenches of Luweero to canvass for votes. He left the tally Center at 3am after the returning Officer declared her the winner. I was really impressed by the kind of Support he extended to Brenda Nabukenya. Today, Hon Brenda is not for Besigye, She is decampaigning him, She is going Forwad. She Believes Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi is better than the man who made her (My sources say so).

She put announcements on the radio inviting all the people of Luwero to attend Hon. Amama Mbabazi’s Fourth Rally today.

Deflection to Go-Forward:

Mary Alip goes independent and also becomes a part of Go-Forward she runs for MP in Moko Sub-county in  Lira District.

BIG-ASS Side-Note:

EC Bribes on 13 Districts Parish and Polling station supervisors/presiding officers
210 bank accounts of Electoral Commission leak.
Tally Intelligence Center
210 bank accounts of Electoral Commission leak through the nation on which Statehouse Uganda NRM wants to deposit funds for rigging elections. In a couple of minutes we are hacking the bank accounts for # 8Banks of Presiding officers each getting a swift of a tune to 10 million/= per Parish supervisor have been hacked so we now can see the 210 bank accounts and owners details contacts and deployment.

1.Kamuli
NO. NAMES S/CTY PARISH BANK A/C NO TEL-
CONTACTS
1. NAKIGANDA PROSCOVIA BALAWOLI BALAWOLI
STANBIC – KML 0140518320101 0776 980 606

  1. IBANDA FREDERICK KASOLWE STANBIC – KML
    0140516890401 0781 416 040
  2. NABUGAMBO ESERI NAMAIRA II STANBIC –
    KML 0140518194501 0774 617 575
  3. MUGOWA RICHARD NABULEZI FIN. TRUST –
    KML 302200005002 0751 001 871
  4. KAGODA MOSES KAGUMBA STANBIC – KML
    0140518300001 0777 226 054
  5. EBUKU NICHOLAS KIIGE STANBIC – KML
    0140518299601 0783 299 204
  6. MAWANDA BONIFCE KAWAGA STANBIC – KML
    0140518294701 0752 379 497
  7. BOGERE LULE MICHEAL KIBUYE STANBIC –
    KML 0140518276201 0771 653 350
  8. TAKAYULA JOSEPH KAMULI T/C KASOIGO
    STANBIC – KML 0140518253901 0771 654 394
  9. BULYA ELIZABETH MUWEBWA STANBIC – IPS
    0140572976301 0782 917 130
  10. MUKEMBO MOSES MANDWA STANBIC – KML
    0140532917801 0754 551 612
  11. NASSOLO SARAH MULAMBA FIN. TRUST –
    KML 302200005587 0776 273 020
  12. MWONDHA PATRICK NABWIGULU
    BUWANUME STANBIC – KML 0140518296901
    0712 117 530
  13. NDIJAMBONE SUZAN KML NAMWENDWA
    STANBIC – KML 0140518283601 0753 061 979
  14. KIYUKA ENOCK NAMUNYINGI STANBIC – KML
    0140518265701 0775 265 274
  15. NAMULONDO HELLEN NABIRUMBA II
    STANBIC – KML 0140518284101 0753 869 179
  16. NAIGULU JENIPHER NABWIGULU CRANE
    BANK (MBALE) 0140006037600 0772 352 166
  17. MAKOOMA HENRY NABIRUMBA I STANBIC –
    KML 0140518276001 0783 454 202
  18. NAMUKASA MARIAM KML-SABAWALI
    STANBIC – KML 0140518266901 0772 842 303
  19. BULUUBA DANIEL NAKULYAKU STANBIC –
    KML 0140518253501 0774 393 292
  20. MWEETE SIMON NAMASAGALI BWIIZA
    STANBIC – KML 0140518272401 0756 614 423
  21. KIYIMBA JULIUS KASOZI STANBIC – KML
    0140518265201 0755 085 822
  22. TABU-LEY CHARLES ONYANGO NAMASAGALI
    STANBIC – KML 0140518280901 0754 065 554

Kamuli:
2.Mbale
NO. SUBCOUNTY NAME ACCOUNT NUMBER
REMARKS

1 WANALE DIVISION 1. KIBBUMBA KEZIAH
306212000018
(Finance Trust Mbale) There was an error in her
account number

  1. NAMURANI MON ALEX 3120039391
    (Centenary Bank Mbale) There was an error in his
    account number

2 BUFUMBO 3. MWENYI RICHARD 014000637500
(Crane Bank Mbale)

3 BUDWALE 4. MABONGA JABERI 1042201000435
(Post Bank Mbale) His account is okay but was
not credited

4 BUSIU 5. MUFUSHI REHEMA 0140519781601
(Stanbic Bank Mbale)

5 BUKASAKYA 6. VENTU IMMACULATE
6520015070
(Centenary Bank Ishaka) Her account is okay but
was not credited

6 BUKIENDE 7. NAMONO STELLA 2200789475
KCB MBALE BRANCH She submitted a wrong
account number

  1. MAYANJA NOAH KAMYA 01210265890011
    (City Branch)
  2. EMOKOR JAMES 0121019654501
    Stanbic Makerere Branch He submitted a wrong
    account number

SUPERVISORS
NO SUBCOUNTY NAME ACCOUNT NUMBER
REMARKS
1 INDUSTRIAL DIVISION WEBISA MUSA ISMAIL
(SUBCOUNTY SUPERVISOR) 95040100004177
(BANK OF BARODA MBALE) HIS A/C WAS
CREDITED BUT MONEY WAS RECALLED AND HAS
NEVER BEEN RETURNED

2 BUSIU MUNYAMI ALI 6001911277
(Barclays Bank) HIS A/C WAS CREDITED BUT
MONEY WAS RECALLED AND HAS NEVER BEEN
RETURNED

3 BUSANO BUSIKU JULIUS MUTIKA (PARISH
SUPERVISOR) 0140006372300
(CRANE BANK MBALE) THERE WAS AN ERROR IN
HIS ACCOUNT NUMBER

4 LUKHONGE WANDA ROGERS
(PARISH SUPERVISOR) 014000637280
CRANE BANK, MBALE HE HAD SUBMITTED A
WRONG ACCOUNT NUMBER

5 BUKONDE KAKAI EUNICE
(PARISH SUPERVISOR) 0140006378700
(CRANE BANK MBALE) THERE WAS AN ERROR IN
HIS ACCOUNT NUMBER
MUKWANA JAMES
(PARISH SUPERVISOR) 0140006372400
CRANE BANK MBALE THERE WAS AN ERROR IN
HIS ACCOUNT NUMBER

6 BUKHIENDE LUBWAMA UMAR
(PARISH SUPERVISOR) 2820001724
(CENTENARY BANK) THERE WAS AN ERROR IN
HIS ACCOUNT NUMBER

7 NAMBALE SSEMPIJJA FAHAD
(PARISH SUPERVISOR) 95040100004082
(BANK OF BARODA MBALE) HIS A/C WAS
CREDITED BUT MONEY WAS RECALLED AND HAS
NEVER BEEN RETURNED

My letter to the Minister of Interior Affairs of Kenya Hon. Joseph Nkaissery on detaining John Ngirachu

Nkaissey 121115

Dear Sir Honorable Joseph Nkaissery!

You did say this yesterday!

To the whole world you said this:

 “Listen there is way, to tell you, You cannot get AWAY with allegation. So it is up to you, if you don’t want to relieve the sources, then you’ll fry Alone! It is…It begins today, if you’re telling the truth. Don’t worry if our friend will be saved. So long as he is telling the truth. If anybody, if you understand ENGLISH, anybody, except two people; the president and his deputy; anybody will be writing statement if you make an allegation, beginning today!”

We know the man frying at that moment  is John Ngirachu; the journalist of the Daily Nation; who was at a Police Station detained by the CID, after writing a story about your Ministry, which you runs honorable Nkaissery. There was to other journalist involved in the stories and not detained yet James Mbaka of the Daily Star and Alphonce Skiundu of the Standard.

This after your Ministry had questioned by the Auditor Generals query on the usage of funds and the use of total Ksh. 3,8 billion in a single day. Honorable Nkaissery you was even questioned on this matter by the Public Accounts Committee in the Parliament.

Your life doesn’t seem easy right now Mr. Nkaissery! You are a public person right? You’re an elected official who are in charge of a government ministry and the funds that brings. Journalist are tiring people, anybody who knows the ways of Daniel Arap Moi; was teaching you this right? Or was it anybody elese?

You sure learned by this history, isn’t that right Honorable Nkaissery?

The Nation has been the subject of frequent government attacks over the past 18 months. Joseph Ngugi, a Nakuru-based correspondent, was one of the first journalists charged in October 1993 with breach of security regulations for attempting to report on political violence in Molo” (…)”Mutegi Njau, the news editor of the Daily Nation, was arrested in April 1994, along with the paper’s Eldoret correspondent, and charged with subversion. The paper had run two stories on official involvement in political violence in the Burnt Forest area of the Rift Valley” (…) “In early January 1995, two Nation reporters were summarily dismissed in circumstances which caused many observers to believe this was a result of official pressure on the company” (Article 19, 1995).

Anybody who knows English and has heard it, remember this one, right?

“Paul Amina was previously arrested in August 1987 (see UA 214/87, AI Index AFR 32/29/87, dated 11 August 1981) and detained under Kenya’s public security regulations, which provide for the indefinite detention without charge or trial of those held to be endangering public security. No reason was given for his arrest in 1987, but it is believed that he was detained because of his reporting of politically sensitive court cases” (…)”Paul Amina, freelance journalist and former prisoner of conscience, was arrested by security police at the International Press Centre in Nairobi on Friday 16 August 1991. He was taken to an unknown destination where he is believed to be held incommunicado. He has not yet been brought to court to be charged with any offence” (AFR 31/26/91, 1991).

Seems like Joseph Nkaissery has learned well, though he needed to teach John Ngirachu a lesson not to make allegations that hurts you. You’re supposed to be Teflon. Anybody should know that! You have only two persons above you and that is The President and his Deputy; therefore detaining a simple little journalist shouldn’t be an issue. You run the Interior Ministry. He only has some Secret Informants and get some leaked information at the Parliament. That bastard!  

The Auditor General shouldn’t even have questioned your for the extra high spending in one day. That is your business, not anybody else, especially not somebody who check society and if there is check and balance. The coverage damage you, therefore it is damaging all of society. Because you’re a pinnacle in society while the Journalist is just a pencil pusher who never couldn’t even have teach the kids of today ENGLISH in Eldoret. You must forgive us. We don’t know English as you honorable Nkaissery.

Honorable Nkaissery you can see from Daniel Arap Moi as your lecturer, he was that also, so you must be one of his noble student. I write this to you because detaining somebody for not giving you the sources of their story on your ministry and monies you’re in charge of. I am sure you wished Ngirachu the treatment of Mr. Njau or Amina of the 90s Kenya. Since you think that is such a proud part of the political heritage! Since you trying to copy it and wish every allegation have to write a statement proving where they got the intelligence. You must be such a noble man Honorable Nkaissery who wishes to have all of this into your ministry. Honarable Nkaissery you must be great fan of extra paperwork to shut down your enemies. And they can’t be trustworthy people if they keep their sources to themselves. They should have Informers in Parliament. That is not noble like you. Anybody would know that.

Honorable Nkaissery what is the truth? What is the honest truth about the monies and your ministry? Why would anybody like the men of the Public Account Committee ask you questions? And why didn’t they ask you directly for statements instead of getting it from informants. You who are such a noble man Nkaissery! Anybody can see that.

I don’t want to to leave you alone or fry you Honorable Nkaissery! But I want to ask how come there was spent so much shillings in your ministry in one day? And why did you detain and ask the two other journalists to be detained for the story? Anybody who has heard the story, wonder about that!

They can’t be saying stuff like they do. Anybody should know the truth. The honest truth from a honorable man like you Joseph Nkaissery! CID got a statement and detained a journalist for an article. That the journalist himself said he got the intel from the Hansard. The Hansard is public property or is there something hidden in the English language that makes them not legal for journalist to read these?

I just want to know the truth Honorable Joseph Nkaissery for why anybody like Ngirachu was detained. That is a statement I want to see and also the reason for why since you have to power over the CID with your station at the ministry honorable Nkaissery. Can you tell that to anybody? I am sure you’re the best source of it. This cannot be seen as political insensitive. It’s just rational sir. So please if you understand my ENGLISH. Please tell this to anybody, the truth in a statement, your allegations of Ngirachu and his colleagues.

John Ngirachu 121115

Sincerely yours

Writer of Minbane.

Reference:

Article 19 –‘Censorship in Kenya: Government critics face the death sentence’ (May 1995) link:   https://www.article19.org/data/files/pdfs/publications/kenya-censorship-in-kenya.pdf

Letter from 1991 – ‘Fear of Torture/Legal Concern’ (19.08.1991) – AFR 31/26/91

Endgame:

Kenya 121115

Third day of Presidential Rallies in Uganda and some reports on the PFMA and KCCA

M7 NRM 111115

There been a new day on the trail the third one. This day has made most sad. Not by what has been said or really done. Though the news of certain candidates abducted and detained at Jinja Central Police Station. That is sad, but not a shock in the environment they campaign in. It was just a matter of time. The really sad thing is not that the President rallies in a Helicopter in the Northern Ugand with Bebe Cool Yellow-editing the reality. That is just expected by the NRM-Regime. What are sad is not the bad roads that FDC is travelling in Kisoro. That is also expected. What is sad is that the Parliament has fulfilled the wet-dreams of President Museveni with adding his wished amendments to the Public Finance Management of 2015. That is sad. But let’s go through the election trail while we also have a little bit of sorrow for the cancellation of Nominations of the Lord Mayor race in Kampala. Cowardice from the Electoral Commission, check it out!

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Quote of the day:

“The commission calls upon police to investigate and arrest the people who torched an agent’s car in Sembabule” – Kiggundu”

VOA:

“Had to ask does Brown Bags during corruption means corruption?”

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FDC Today:

“Not even the bad roads in the villages of Kisoro will stop us from rallying”.

The People’s President Dr. Kizza-Besigye Wrn has campaigned in Mukotojjomuko Town in Rubanda West, Kabale District. Mukatojo trading centre was we’re he had his first rally today.

Bad roads force Gen Muntu and National Party Chairman Ambassador Birigwa to abandon cars. The Kisoro campaign trail is moving on well, Dr Besigye has 4 more gatherings to adress plus the main rally in Kisoro town

Dr. Kizza-Besigye Wrn and Gen Muntu campaigning in Rubugiri in Kisoro District.

They will have the main rally in the Mayor’s Garden in Kisoro Town. Here he got even more NRM cards up into the hundreds like in recents day from determind members who is thinking of leaving the ruling party.

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Besigye said this today:

“Museveni can only be President up to May next year. The corrupt can only steal up to then. After May, whoever dips his hand in goverment coffers. His hand will stay in there”.

A Fun Fact: 

“Kisoro is one of those region herald has a stronghold of NRM, where its alleged that 93% of voters support the ruling party”.

The Message that Dr. Kizza Besigye had to the people of Kisoro after the rallies:

“Thank you very much Kisoro !..for the overwhelming reception you have accorded to my candidature today. Despite all challenges the people of Kisoro face ,ranging from lack of decent rural roads,.hospitals and schools you have braved the long journeys and I salute your hunger for the message of hope exhibited today at our rallies” (…)“Kisoro region is one of the most naturally endowed part of the country rich with fertile lands and tourist attractions, but having travelled through the remote areas of the region, I feel quite ashamed and disturbed by the state of affairs in this region, the situation is as alarming just like in all the other parts of the country” (…)“It’s not surprising that Mr. Museveni alleges 99% of Kisoro region support him and the NRM regime yet he abandons you to a state of abject poverty, because his government is riddled with corruption to the extent that he doesn’t care about the conditions he exposes you to, as long as you vote for him or he forces himself onto you against your will. The same person makes the other parts of the country believe that everything is rosy in Kisoro which in reality has never been the case” (…)“ Therefore my message to you today is ; begin to change your mindset, Mr. Museveni is not your master, he is supposed to be your servant, it’s you who have the powers to appoint and dismiss him. So Kisoro for you to have better services in the region, we have to work together, join up in the ‘Power 10’ agenda; organize ourselves in groups of ten and connect and liase with each other, and I can assure you this corrupt regime will be history and the Bufumbira region will develop to the great potential it should be” (…)“Thank you so much Kisoro ,I am leaving here in a very energetic mood and full of hope and optimism that the timing has never been more perfect, to liberate our beloved country Uganda. God Bless you the people of Kisoro. For God and my country”.

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On the TIC:

Maureen Faith Kyala has been arrested today. She was detained in Jinja. Maureen is detained at Jinja Central Police Station.

Rule of Law and the FDC:

“Kizza Besigye risks being banned if he defies the law, Electoral Commission (EC) says as it warns the FDC flag-bearer against ‘inciting public with his defiance campaign’. Besigye who is seeking the presidency for the fourth time says his 2016 campaign is one of defiance, not compliancy” (NBS TV)

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NRM Rallies today:

Had their campaign at Dokolo today. There was massive turn-up of Crime Preventers at the venue and especially at the Iguli rally of the President. He also had Rally in Lira.

YKM said today: “When we took charge of Uganda, we enacted a constitution – all power belongs to the people”.

Amama 111115 Mityana

Go-Forward rallies:

Amama Mbabazi held rallies in  Mityana today. At Mityana he received a spear, shield with the water-hoe symbolic of agricultural roots. DP Norbert Mao is part of the trail, even FDC’s Beatrice Anywar!

Beatrice Anywar said this today: “Who knew DP members would be at the same rally with FDC and NRM members, this is possible with Amama Mbabazi”.

Mathias Nsubuga said this: “We have not sold DP to Mbabazi. TDA is an alliance seeking change in Uganda. Change one person can not bring”.

At the Mityana rally a man asked “Amama how they used to rig the elections?”, he answered the man: “Never leave the premises or polling station”.

Amama Mbabazi said this today: “Every generation has its responsibility. Ours liberation this country, brought it this far. Need to carry on” (…)”I know a lot and can assure such (vote rigging) will not be done this time around”.

One candidate more:

Abed Bwanika was at Bugiri and Namayingo. Has anybody seen or heard him?

Joseph-Mabirizi

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE MABIRIZI JOSEPH ABDUCTED FROM HIS HOTEL ROOM IN IGANGA

This is an official statement from the Head of Bureau.

At around 2.00am this morning, 11th November 2015, TIC Presidential Candidate Elton Joseph Mabirizi heard a knock on his hotel room. When he asked who it was, the assailant said : “I am your bodyguard”. So he opened. It turned out that it was not his bodyguard but two strange men.

He was in his Pajamas but without a top (bare chest). In that state he was blindfolded, walked to a waiting car, forced into the car boot and driven off to a bungalow where he was ushered in a room and unfolded. In the room he saw three men dressed in military uniform and the two plain clothed ones that had picked him from the hotel. They made no attempt to hide their faces.

He was thoroughly roughed up and warned that if he still wanted to stay alive, he should quit the Presidential race. They had a hot plate in the room which they plugged into a socket till red hot. They told him that if he does not abandon the campaign, next time they would make him sit on it.

He was then blindfolded again and dropped at a small urban settlement at around 3.30am,. He was rescued by the area LC who made arrangements to take him back to his hotel.

It should be noted that he has 11 armed Counter Terrorism Policemen guarding him. Not even one of them including his personal body guard learnt of the abduction until he was brought back to the hotel by the area LC I.

The latest now (12.03 pm) is that he has been driven in another police car to Jinja Central Police Station and has been taken inside.

We have spoken to the EC spokesperson Mr. Taremwa to report the incident. We explained that our candidate had been abducted under that watch of 11 counter terrorism policemen. The phone went off during the conversation. We have called back five times- he is not picking his phone. We have sent a text message to him requesting to call me back. It is now 30 minutes, he has not done so yet.

This should give an idea on how important the EC takes Candidate security.

We shall have tie to address the press when my candidate has been safely evacuated from Busoga region to Kampala.

 Today he was scheduled to address rallies in Jinja and Mayuge.

It is not clear whether he will be able to do so.

Statement issued at 12.21 pm. November 11, 2015

Omar Kalinge-Nnyago

HEAD OF BUREAU

THE INDEPENDENT COALITION, TIC

After all of this, this morning the UPDF had to question the Presidential Candidate.

Mayoral Race in Kampala – Erias Lukwago comments:

Addressing the press on the obnoxious KCCA Amendment Bill that seeks to whittle down people’s sovereignty. It’s only a collapsing regime that takes refugee in draconian laws. I have submitted to the Electoral Commission all the relevant signatures endorsing my candidature ahead of the nominations slated for Monday 16th. I have also called for a stakeholders’ meeting tomorrow 12th November at my residence in Rubaga at 11am to chart a way forward. The struggle continues”.

NRM Primaries – Saga doesn’t stop:

Makindddye Muncipality aftermath:

This morning l have submitted a video recording of massive rigging in Makinddye Ssaabgabo Municipality masterminded by the Municipality NRM Registrar Charles Settebere, in favour of the outgoing twice flag bearer . l have submitted it to NRM Electoral Commission Legal Officer Mubarakia Kalungi, but his boss Dr. Tanga Odoi and NRM First Vice Chairperson Ah Haji Moses Kigongo, were also aware of the event. l have called for the cancellation of results and a call for fresh party primaries, and to do away with the notorious registrar, Settebere, and replace him with one from the headquarters. All Polling Station registrars should also be reinforced from those at headquarters. Failure to respond to my prayers, l intend to stand on an independent ticket. In my own observation however, three man Tanga Commission is over whelmed. Capt. Abbey Mukwaya Committee should come to its rescue” (Written by Ahmed Musaazi).

Side-note:

In Kijabijo (Gayaza Karagi Road). The community says «they need power back». They have spent 4 months since the transformer was taken by UMEME. So they have put fires into the main roads as a demonstration against the government and UMEME for taking away electricity.

Side-note 2:

Eng. Dr. Badru Kiggundu of Electoral Commission has suspended the nominations for Lord of Mayor of Kampala. Surely they trying to coup the place for Babu instead of having a fun race between Raga Dee and Erias Lukwago. That is because the NRM-Regime hasn’t the balls to do so, because they know what might happen! Especially since they remember in 2011 and also the last by-election in Amuru…

Side-note 3:

Finance Minister Matia Kasajja told the Parliament today that there is no money in the Contingency Funds therefore the need for the Public Management Fund 2015 Amendment. The sad note on this matter is that the Parliament passed it. So the Government can just ride into the Bank and take short term loans as they please now!

Aftermath: 

Think that was enough for the day. Don’t you think this was more than enough. THE PMFA 2015 amendment is frightening enough. The things that been said on the trail is not important, now the Government and the ruling NRM-Regime has secured funding for their campaign and buying of fresh gear to their “Anti-Besigye-Act” and their fresh tear-gas. Surely these elections will be mad and brown bags. Since the Bank of Uganda is now a free for all. You can be surely be proud Hon. Kasajja and President Museveni, there will surely be inflation and devalue of the Shilling in the near future. Kiss 5% inflation rate goodbye! Peace.

Second day of Presidential Rallies in Uganda and other reports affecting to these elections

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The candidates have been to different venues. The kick-off of the election season was yesterday. This is just the second day of the rallies for the 8th candidates in the race. Still I will promise I can’t have the ability to follow it as tight until 18th February 2016. So now from now on the will be other types of articles and blogs from me. It’s heavy to know and get all the report and fit in one piece. With the information from all of the different camps and parties involved. But here are some of the basics of the second day, also other actions that has happen. Not between the venues of the candidates, but initially the bigger picture.

Because in the Parliament they have discussed the Public Finance Management Bill of 2015, AGAIN, TODAY! This offers certain advantages to the government and less accountability for the Parliament. This gives the Government an opportunity to take short-term loans without thinking… That should get people rise their eyebrows and sneezing because of the BS from the NRM-Regime to achieve their goal. A free-way to bank and not due diligence on the short-term loans, that should not be a possibility, because that opens up so many worm-holes and pigeon-holes for an embezzlement and added corruption, last but not least. Something that make the economy even more volatile ads up more problems that can lead bigger inflation and higher prices, and last also devalue the shilling. Because of the more flow of monies and less control of the flow of currency in the country, that ends with less value of monies in general.

If you wonder what it is about read this:  

My blog piece about the Public Finance Management Bill of 2015 Amendment

Here I continue on the reports and news of the day!

Bank notes Uganda

Handouts during elections:

“This is particularly not surprising since a large percentage of the electorate is extremely poor and vulnerable to monetary handouts. But besides cash handouts voters have also been compromised with petty handouts that are largely consumptive and have no long term impact on their lives. All this is conduct that is contrary to the electoral law but seems to have grown unabated” (…)“During elections inflation tends to skyrocket, which creates problems for the economy”, Muhumuza, an economic analyst with KPMG, says. “The inflation, he says, has a far reaching impact that not only slows down economic growth but has the potential to wipe out gains” (Ladu, 2015).

Express concerns of paying debts:

“The petitioners told the secretary general, Justine Kasule Lumumba, recently at Parliament that the purpose of their request was to express their dissatisfaction over recently concluded party primaries, explaining that the postponement caused them to incur a lot of debts.“The NRM Electoral Commission (EC) kept postponding voting in the primaries; the delay caused a big financial strain on aspirants, because we had borrowed money” (Kiwuuwa, 2015).

NRM hires a VJ to Campaign for Museveni:

“Famous local movie translator Commonly VJ Jingo (now a Ssalongo) is now in monies following a new deal from Kyadondo that indicates that Jingo will be bagging Ugx. 200 million to provide mentions for NRM’s party flag bearer President Museveni during the presidential campaign due next year” (Newz.ug, 2015). I know I am late to the party, but still worth noticing right!

Crime Preventers

DP on the Crime Preventers:

“DP Deputy Spokesperson, Alex Waiswa told journalists at the City House in Kampala that they have learnt from credible sources that this brutal act was executed by crime preventers in the area. “We strongly resisted the creation of crime preventers having forecast such incidences; these groups have been formed and passed out at such an elective period with the sole aim of bogging all attempts by the opposition to the take over power in the 2016 general elections,” Waiswa said. “I want to assure Ugandans that no amount of attack or intimidation on us shall hinder our candidate and the group to continue campaigning and subsequently take over power in 2016,” Waiswa noted” (Segwa, 2015).

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Orders on Tear-Gas from IGP Kale Kayihura today:

The Deputy Spokesman Polly Namaye: “The Police Policy is to ensure as little engagement with the public terms of crowd control. We will only use means such as tear gas where absolutely necessary” (…)”The decision, according to the source, could also informed by the fact that the force wants to avoid using expired stock” (The Insider, 2015).

Seven Amama Supporters detained:

“Even Amama Mbabazi supporters are currently detained at Namataba Police Station. Go Forward’s PRO Mayanja Nkangi says they have been told those in police custody committed the offence of ‘driving a car with machines’. Mbabazi is expected to hold his second rally this afternoon in Mukono” (Investigator, 2015).

Amama 101115. Banda Stop

Police action in Mukono:

Also in Mukono there was a Brass Band playing for the Go-Forward candidate before the rally. The Police have stopped this brass band from playing.

NRM reaction to the Go-Forward rally:

Earlier today the NRM had a procession in Mukono. It just had to happen the day that Amama Mbabazi and the Go-Forward team were coming to town. After this they held an Anti-Amama Protest in town.

Deflections to Go-Forward:

“The Iganga District vice chairperson, Mr Ezra Gabula, has declared his support for former prime minister Amama Mbabazi, saying President Museveni has lost track and is no longer focused enough to lead the country” (Sigira, 2015).

Go-Forward rally in Mukono:

At the Mukono Rally of the Go-Forward one of the speakers Mugoba-Nsonga tells Ken Lukyamuzi: “You have two weeks to join Go-Forward lest you are no longer part of the party president”.

Mathias Mpuunga said this after the rally:

Thnx Hon. Betty Nambooze & Mukono! Time to offer leadership and not excuses!

Amama 101115 Buganda

Who Plans the Go-Forward rally in Oyam:

The loser of the NRM Primaries Omodo Omodo is making arrangements for the Go-Forward and Amama Mbabazi’s rally in the area.

NRM Poor Youth deflects from Go-Forward back to Museveni:

“Thomas Kategere who is also the National Resistance Movement flag bearer for Kamuli district LC5 chairperson on Monday crossed to Museveni`s camp when he drove all the way from Kamuli to attend the latter`s first presidential campaign rally in Luwero district” (Okello, 2015).

FDC Party and Dr. Kizza Besigye rallies toaday:

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Dr. Kizza Besigye on the Road:

He had an early stop at Rwamabondo. He will later hold a rally at Kyamate Grounds.

Inside the village of the Karaja County in Ntungamo district. In the village he had to stop to greet supporters and even held a speech to the greeting public. At the village level more than hundred people left their NRM-Cards to the Dr. Kizza Besigye and told that they would not vote for Museveni and NRM no more.

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Dr. Kizza Besigye wsa in Rwasahamire: “It took us many hours to get here because of a poor road network”.

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Dr Besigye has addressed our supporters in Kitwe in Ruhaama county of Ntungamo district. He is expected to arrive at the main rally in Ntungamo municipality around 7.

Hon Ibrahim SSemujju Nganda stated this today:

“In November 2013, Parliament’s Government Assurance Committee released a report indicating that since 1986, Mr Museveni had not fulfilled pledges totalling to 817 whose worth was estimated at Shs13 trillion in key areas such as roads, hospitals, schools, airports, bridges, electricity and industrialisation. And he insists on running for another term of office?”

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Dr.Kizza Besigye statement after the rallies today:

“To all the evidently change hungry people of Ntungamo. I want to say thank you for the warm welcome accorded to us. The dug up roads we witnessed today in a district where many NRM bigwigs originate is evidence that we should work for change. A type of change that will see us have better roads regardless of how remote our subcounty is. To the people of Rubare and Kitwe thanks for braving the rain as you waited for our arrival. With this spirit of defiance against heavy rains we shall surely win this election. Let us lift our country through a spirit of sacrifice and commitment like we have exhibited today. I would like to encourage those who have turned in their NRM party cards to remain steadfast and resolute. It is as well very touching to see you pull out your 1000, 500, 100 shillings to finance this campaign. You have given new meaning to the name ‘The People’s President’. Mwebare munonga. Ruhanga abarinde”.

TIC PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGNS:

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We congratulate TIC presidential candidate Mr. Mabirizi Joseph and his colleague Mrs. Kyala Walube on a successful first day of campaigns. Mabirizi left Kampala a bit late which caused problems for Iganga- the Iganga rally has been rescheduled to tomorrow mid morning before proceeding to Bugiri and Namayingo. Kaliro was great.

Today Maureen Faith Kayala had a rally in Busoga. At the rally she promised to make Joseph Mabirizi her VP.

Reports saying this about one of the candidates:

Gen. Biraro is still studying the situation. He won’t rush, victory is his, he projects a 80% sweep.

M7 and NRM continue to have campaign rallies:

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Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in Nakeseke:

He had to take a helicopter to the venue. Where he has asked the public vote for him and he is “your best choice”.

Journalist Detained because of the crowd photoes of the NRM rallies:

Five Journalists and photographers who were covering President Museveni rallies in Nakaseke and Nakasongola were arrested and detained. They were forced to delete all there photos and videos. The journalists and photographers had covered poor turn up of Museveni rallies. They was later released after deleting the photos.

A nice combo from one of the rallies:

Nakasongola crowd combined of this kind of crowd!

Crimes preventers + Army men at Nakasongola Barack + Army men’s wives + Army men’s children + Nakasongola police men and their women + Some few NRM supporters -Nakasongola residents = Museveni crowds.

Bebe Cool works the crowd at President Museveni’s Nakasongola rally.

The singer says the incumbent will retain the presidency “because he does 4 rallies a day, with the same crowd within a single district while others do one at most two a day and have even resorted to manufacturing pics to seek false confidence” (NBS TV, 2015).

In Amolator the Lango Chief Yosam Odur gave him a spear and shield. So Museveni got respect from the local folks here.

This is what I have from today. It should seem as enough. Second day of Election rallies. There been a lot and also lots of action on the ground. Hard to cover it all and give an edge that Daily Monitor, New Vision and all the other media houses does. So this is my go at it. I will follow the election, but I can’t do it this heavy in the coming days. But will try my best so that the cover of the election gets a bit fair.

Reference:

Kiwuuwa, Paul – ‘NRM losers seek audience with Museveni over debts’ (10.11.2015) link: http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/675512-nrm-losers-seek-audience-with-museveni-over-debts.html

Ladu, Ismail Musa – ‘Election handouts: The scourge eating the economy’ (10.11.2015) link: http://www.monitor.co.ug/Business/Prosper/Election-handouts-scourge-economy/-/688616/2949400/-/q09kal/-/index.html

Newz.ug – ‘NRM hires VJ Jingo to campaign for Museveni, bags Ugx. 200m’ (09.10.2015) link: http://newz.ug/2015/10/19/nrm-hires-vj-jingo-to-campaign-for-museveni-bags-ugx-200m/

Okello, Dickens H. – ‘Another Poor Youth Leaves Mbabazi for Museveni’ (10.11.2015) link: http://www.chimpreports.com/another-poor-youth-leaves-mbabazi-for-museveni/

Investigator – ‘#AmamaTrail: Seven Amama Mbabazi Supporters detained as Baryamureeba Suspends his Campaigns’ (10.11.2015) link: http://theinvestigatornews.com/amamatrail-seven-amama-mbabazi-supporters-detained-as-baryamureeba-suspends-his-campaigns/

Segwa, Nixon – ‘DP, TDA- Go Forward Threaten to Counterattack Crime Preventers’ (10.11.2015) link: http://www.chimpreports.com/dp-tda-go-forward-threaten-to-counterattack-crime-preventers/

Sigira, Yazid Yoli – ‘Iganga District boss crosses to Mbabazi camp’ (10.11.2015) link: http://www.monitor.co.ug/News/National/Iganga-District-boss-crosses-to-Mbabazi-camp/-/688334/2950424/-/wtnra8z/-/index.html

The Insider – ‘Kayihura tells cops to go slow on expired teargas’ (10.11.2015) link: http://www.theinsider.ug/kayihura-tells-cops-to-go-slow-on-expired-teargas/

The Kenyan Saga of Journalist John Ngirachu: Minister Nkaissery’s statement to journalists (Youtube-Clip), Press Statement from the Media Council of Kenya (10.11.2015), Press release from Raila Odinga & Press Statement from the Kenyan Editors Guild (10.11.2015)

Media Kenya P1Media Kenya P2

STATEMENT BY THE KENYA EDITORS GUILD ON THE ARREST OF NATION MEDIA GROUP JOURNALIST JOHN NGIRACHU

An old proverb aptly advised human kind over the ages that, “Whom the gods wish to destroy, they first make mad.”

This evening, the Cabinet Secretary in charge of the Ministry of Interior Major General (retired) Joseph ole Nkaissery outdid himself in purported execution of the mandate of his Ministry. John Ngirachu, a Nation Media Group journalist on lawful duty in the National Assembly was arrested within the precincts of Parliament on orders of Nkaissery.

The cabinet secretary has evidently followed through his threat to target the media over a report on the Auditor General’s query on how Nkaissery Ministry spent some Ksh.3.8 Billion in a single day.

The Kenya Editors Guild and indeed the entire independent media fraternity is appalled by the arrest of Ngirachu and the bizarre demand by Nkaissery that the journalist ‘reveal the source of the story’. The query of the Auditor General on the Ksh.3.8 Billion Interior Ministry spending is a matter for which Mr. Nkaissery was questioned by the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament and effectively, Nkaissery is one of the sources of the story, and indeed a reliable one.

The demand for source of the story is therefore mere posturing by Nkaissery who has proceeded to threaten that Ngirachu will quote; “be fried if he does not reveal the sources of his story”. We are indeed disappointed with this unpolished language of an otherwise senior cabinet minister; phrases such as ‘frying’ an innocent journalist could at best find home back in 1980s when Nkaissery led an infamous military ‘security operation’ against potentially innocent villagers in West Pokot.

We have also taken note of a 4-page incoherent statement that preceded the arrest of Ngirachu. The statement is an attempt to build a case against not just the media but also a broader base of Kenyans that have dared question a wide range of issues particularly the runaway corruption in government.

The Nkaiserry statement has bizarrely suggested what it terms ‘a choreographed campaign to destroy the government’. The statement termed corruption and the media reporting of it as ‘an internationalized hysteria aimed at harming the Nation.’ Nkaissery also accuses quote “the media of castigating the government as irredeemably corrupt.” The statement then proceeds to warn that those making allegations of corruption will be held to account.

I am urging the media to publish the statement in full so that the public can appreciate the peculiar, even irrational thoughts contained in the 4-page statement.

If the statement is anything to go by, the arrest of journalist John Ngirachu is only the beginning of tougher times for the media and any other independent voices brave enough to raise questions on the corruption crisis that ails our country tonight.

We complete with an assurance, John Ngirachu will be free and back to work shortly.

Thank you.

Linus Kaikai
CHAIRMAN, KENYA EDITORS GUILD

Press release:

HARASSMENT OF JOURNALISTS 

My attention has been drawn to the arrest of Parliamentary Editor for the Nation Media Group, Mr John Ngirachu. I have also learnt of the absurd explanation by Internal Security Cabinet Secretary Mr Joseph Nkaissery that Mr Ngirachu will be released when he reveals the source of the story he wrote on the Internal Security spending.

I want to express my solidarity with the family, friends and media fraternity over this unfortunate development. I also wish to advise the government to respect the timeless tradition that journalists are duty bound to protect the sources of information they have as long as that information is of immense public interest and there was no way of obtaining it other than by relying on confidential sources. I believe that was the case in regard to security ministry spending. This is not the first time spending by internal security ministry is coming into sharp scrutiny.

I wish to assure Mr Ngirachu that I stand with him personally and the Opposition does too. I assure him that his dreams for a free and open society are valid and legal and he must pursue them without any fear of fighting a lone battle. We will do all we can to secure his freedom.

I demand that the young man be freed immediately to pursue his career. Kenya has to move forward and close the chapter of repression and opaqueness in the management of public affairs permanently. I appeal to my colleagues in government to stop entertaining the idea that Kenya can move backwards or stand still.

In the meantime, I have also instructed lawyers Senator James Orengo and Mr Paul Mwangi to immediately get in touch with the Nation Media Group and take up the young editor’s case for free and defend the rights and privileges of the media for the sake of Kenya.

The Rt. Hon Raila A. Odinga, EGH

Quote of the Day – Tamale Mirundi: “Statesman…”

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