KAMPALA
A group of unidentified youth has dumped eight piglets at Democratic Party (DP) Balintuma road offices, in protest against internal party mess and the Electoral Commission’s non-responsiveness over pressing party issues.
The piglets were tied in white cloth with writings, “Byabakama Wake Up” among other protest messages. They were dumped outside the party’s main gate while party officials addressed their weekly press conference.
A Boda Boda rider who witnessed the incident told journalists that two men traveling on a motorcycle dumped the piglets which were being carried in boxes before fleeing the scene.
The inciddent followed a recent peaceful demonstration in which four DP youth wing, UYD members carrying pumpkins and mats stormed the the Independent Electoral Commission Headquarters, demanding audience with the EC chairperson, Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama over delayed response to chaotic party Delegates Conference in June.
According to the group, the June DP delegates conference in Mbarara was marred by massive irregularities, intimidations and voter bribery, prompting some party members to petition the EC for immediate intervention to nullify the outcomes of the conference. However, this was not given utmost attention needed, with the youth accusing the EC of conniving with DP party officials like Nobert Mao to frustrate justice processes.
“We issued a seven-day ultimatum last week, but the EC has remained silent. Their inaction is aiding impunity,” Anthony Wadimba, on of the aggrieved youth said.
“If the EC cannot resolve disputes within a small party like DP, how can it be trusted to oversee a credible national election?” retaliated Ismail Kiirya, former UYD President, and loser of the party Secretary General election during the Mbarara Delegates Conference.
Four youth; Anthony Wadimba, Julius Ddumba, Ismail Kiirya and Micheal Kabenge were arrested and later released on police bond.
Nevertheless, the EC acknowledge receipt of DP petitions, and maintained that they were still handling petitions from other stakeholders such as those arising from the Special Interest Groups (SIGs), noting that they would also consider DP petitions.
“We know the petitioners and we are in touch with them through their formal contacts,” said Paul Bukenya, EC Public Relations manager. “The matter is before the commission for consideration.”
