The Uganda Police have denied allegations that they shot and injured Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, the president of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) party.
In a statement issued by police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, the police dismissed social media reports claiming that officers opened fire on Kyagulanyi while he was on his way to visit lawyer George Musisi in Bulindo, Kira Municipality.
According to the police, Kyagulanyi’s injuries were self-inflicted as he was entering his car and were not a result of being shot. Hower pictures posted on social medi appear to show a bullet wound. Video footage posted by Ghetto TV shows Kyagulanyi’s supporters, led by his bodyguard Eddie Mutwe, carrying him to Najaeem Medical Centre for medical attention. In the video, one supporter can be heard repeatedly shouting, “Oh God, the president has been shot.”
Eddie Mutwe and Kyagulanyi’s close associate, Nubian Li, both posted about the incident on their social media accounts, further fueling speculation. NUP Secretary-General Lewis Rubongoya confirmed to reporters that Kyagulanyi had indeed been shot.
Full police statement (unedited)
STATEMENT ON ALLEGED SHOOTING OF MR
@mkituuma “Today 03 September 2024, Hon. Kyagulanyi Robert was invited by Mr. George Musisi (Lawyer), to a Thanksgiving ceremony in Bulindo, Kiira Municipality, Wakiso District.
2. Hon. Kyagulanyi participated in the celebration, which concluded peacefully.
3. When Hon. Kyagulanyi left the venue, he and his team moved out of their cars and embarked on a procession up to Bulindo town; however, the police advised against it. Despite their guidance, he insisted on proceeding and closing the road, leading to police intervention to prevent the procession.
4. During the ensuing altercation, it is alleged that he sustained injuries. Police officers on site claim he stumbled while getting into his vehicle, causing the injury, whereas Hon. Kyagulanyi and his team assert that he was shot.
5. An investigation will be conducted to clarify the facts.
END
6. He was taken to Najaeem Medical Centre in Bulindo for first aid.
7. The police will investigate the alleged shooting and any related incidents.
END
