Opposition members of Parliament have today boycotted parliamentary sittings in protest of the continued violation of the rights of opposition political actors who are blocked from holding public gatherings. This follows a military siege that was witnessed at the National Unity Platform (NUP) headquarters in Kamwokya yesterday where party leaders and supporters were arrested.
It all started with shadow minister for finance, Muwanga Kivumbi who acted as Leader of the Opposition and raised a matter of national concern condemning the acts of security agencies that sieged NUP party offices yesterday; arresting people who had gathered to pray for the souls of those who were allegedly killed in their political struggle.
He challenged the government to explain the violation of rights of opposition political actors by stopping them from holding assemblies despite the constitutional court’s decision to nullify sections of the Public Order Management Act which require police to approve political gatherings.
Despite pleadings by the deputy speaker Thomas Tayebwa, the opposition demanded for unconditional release of all political prisoners backed by a statement from the Minister of Internal Affairs or less the walkout; which they finally did.
On the stairs of parliament, Opposition MPs explained their way forward and insisted on demanding for government explanation.
Opposition legislators explained that they can’t hold on anymore with the impunity mated against them by security agencies.
