
“KAKUMIRO – Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate, Patrick Oboi Amuriat was on Thursday arrested and driven to Kakumiro Grade 1 Court, where he was charged for breaking traffic rules” (John Masaba – ‘Amuriat, driver charged for breaking traffic rules’ 07.01.2021, New Vision).
I don’t know if the Uganda Police Force (UPF) was really serious here. We have seen they arrest Opposition leaders and Presidential Candidates over nothing. They have arrested opposition activists for spreading COVID-19, but having them in giant groups into the courts. In a manner, which could easily spread the same virus. Therefore, my belief that the reckless driving charge isn’t legit, but a political ploy to stop the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Presidential Candidate from campaigning today.
Next time they will arrest him for spitting, sneezing and jaywalking. He will turn wrong and forget the tail-light or send a signal. He should maybe have pigeons to alert where his going and ensure the road safety. The man should drive from side to side on the roads, but straight path. Even his driver and himself is avoid the potholes, which is a lot of. Still, that is a tourism export and POA could show them off to the general public. Because, campaigning in 2020 and 2021 is a bumpy ride.
That is why he was arrested today. Not because I believe he was reckless driving, but the Police Officer and District Police Commander wanted to get a credit for good work. They were able to find a reason to stop POA from campaigning. That is why they did this.
Because, we have seen plenty of candidates drive SUVs like this during campaigns. With their convoys and in a open car. Standing through the wind-shields and waving. So, what is the difference if he was sitting on top? Both things can be seen as dangerous, but the authorities have allowed it both as long as I can remember.
It seems like a ploy to me. The state can create more reckless driving and havoc with their skirmishes and brutal ways of dispersing people in towns across the republic. Where the live-bullets, the driving after political convoys and ambushes. That is can create an atmosphere of uncertainty and adrenaline rush. Which in the end can end up in some dangerous driving. That is as a response to actions made by the authorities and law enforcement.
Therefore, the Police should look if they are as lawful themselves. If they are acting with caution or careful in traffic. They are not that good at Fika Salama and Rood Safety themselves. Maybe time to set forward an example? Maybe, they should also work on making believable charges for ones. Not only target politicians and make them look like outlaws.
The Police has arrested POA so many times in this campaign. They have abducted him and taken him away. This is a continued measure and its ridiculous. This is not free and fair campaigning, but a combat just to spread the message. That is the reality of this. Peace.












