The latest news from the Northern City of Lira reports a significant social media migration, particularly among Whatsapp users, shifting from one political forum to another.
According to a source in a political WhatsApp group interviewed by The Ankole Times newspaper, in the last 24 hours, up to 240 Whatsapp users from different forums joined the “Lira City Political Forum.”
An anonymous administrator cited suspected poor moderation by some WhatsApp administrators as the reason for the mass crossover, without specifying names.
Last week, verbal conflicts erupted in various WhatsApp groups in Lira City, triggered by Hon. Betty Amongi Akena expressing interest in the Lira City Woman Parliamentary seat.
This development did not sit well with supporters of the incumbent, Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, commonly known as “Ceng Otedere,” translated as sunshine for the Wanahinci.
Recently, there has been a bitter exchange of vulgar language and heated abuse among WhatsApp members, believed to be supporters of Hon. Betty Amongi Akena and Hon. Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng.
The insults prompted Lira City West Councilor Hon. Awor Sarah Angweri to report the culprits to Lira Central Police Station. A case was opened with Ref No. 35/11/12/2023, citing Cyber Harassment on Phone.
Later, Sarah addressed the press at Space Lounge, outlining her legal intentions. It is learned that those summoned include Akao Caroline, Akullu Babra, among others, who are required to record their statements with the police.
Following the police summons, peace-loving individuals fearing legal consequences have started leaving one WhatsApp group for another.
A leader in Lira City, who wished to remain anonymous due to the matter’s sensitivity, emphasized that supporters of the two ministers should view each other as brothers and sisters, despite political differences.
Hon. Sarah Awor Angweri, speaking to our reporter on Thursday from Lira City, vowed to follow legal proceedings diligently and prosecute anyone victimized by cyberbullying and harassment.
An unconfirmed report from a police source, speaking on condition of anonymity due to media restrictions, stated that six people have been summoned to record statements. One of them has switched off her known phone number out of fear of being located and arrested by the police tracking team.
If the Resident State Attorney (RSA) decides, based on the file review, the culprits may be arraigned before the Court of law for possible prosecution.
Meanwhile, mixed reactions are emerging in Lira City, with some urging Hon. Sarah Awor Angweri to forgive the culprits if they are willing to apologize, rather than pursuing legal action.
However, Hon. Sarah Awor Angweri has been seen in the last two days frequently visiting Lira City Central Police Station (CPS) to finalize legal redress for court proceedings.
This has led some individuals to migrate to other WhatsApp forums, including “Lira City Political Forum.” On the other hand, others are frequently participating in discussions, bringing about improvements in the level of discourse in most WhatsApp groups in the Lango sub-region, especially in Lira City.
