(Kampala) – After recent accolades and cash bonuses were given to Police Constable Makawa Charles for his supposed restraint during an altercation, new footage casts doubt on his “heroic” image. In the video, Makawa is seen making initial contact with Mercy Timbitwire Bashisha, an employee at the National Resistance Movement Secretariat.
The praise for Makawa’s calm conduct has dominated public statements, with officials including Speaker Anita Among lauding his “maturity” and “professionalism.” However, the emergence of a video clip that shows Makawa as the first to act aggressively raises questions about the initial narrative, which painted Bashisha as the sole aggressor.
For those asking "where is the video". Ugandans are idiots for thinking our police officers are saints. These are guys who take bribes from us everyday. It's clear he hit her first. pic.twitter.com/6ZsrXFZZSl
— Will Muhumuza (@MuhumuzaisWill) October 27, 2024
Speaker Among apologized on behalf of Ugandan women for what was initially seen as an unprovoked assault by Bashisha on Makawa. In her remarks on October 22, she acknowledged the “sacrifices made by our police” and extended her regrets for what appeared to be Bashisha’s violent response to law enforcement. Praising Makawa’s restraint, Among described him as a model of “exemplary conduct” and urged the public to recognize the challenges faced by police officers.
Makawa has received significant financial bonuses for his alleged display of calmness, and some MPs have even suggested he be promoted. However, the release of the extended video raises doubts about whether these rewards and praises were warranted. In the footage, which had been trimmed in earlier reports, Makawa can be seen initiating the physical altercation, complicating the perception of him as a “heroic” officer.
Despite the newly revealed video, some MPs, such as Mawogola County’s Hon. Goretti Namugga, urged all parties to condemn violence, suggesting that respect for human rights should apply universally. Namugga’s comments seemed to indirectly acknowledge that both parties may share responsibility in the incident, calling for a balanced approach to justice.
Further complicating matters, MPs praised another traffic officer, Abdallah Tumusiime, for his commitment, particularly after he was filmed directing traffic during a heavy downpour. Tumusiime has become a symbol of dedication, with Speaker Among calling him an example of “exceptional commitment.” Tumusiime’s recognition stands in stark contrast to the scrutiny now faced by Makawa.
| Praise and Rewards for Officer Makawa Charles | Context |
|---|---|
| Cash bonuses awarded | For perceived professionalism |
| Speaker Among’s apology on behalf of women | In light of Makawa’s supposed calmness |
| MPs’ recommendations for promotion | Due to Makawa’s “restraint” |
| New video evidence | Shows Makawa initiated the altercation |
MP Hon. Abed Bwanika of Kimaanya-Kabonera Division has called for Makawa’s promotion, highlighting his apparent dedication. Yet, new footage challenges this view, sparking debate on whether these rewards align with the events as they occurred.
Meanwhile, Kalungu West MP, Hon. Joseph Ssewungu, proposed government action to improve traffic infrastructure, such as installing more traffic lights to ease the burden on officers. “Children will refuse to join the police force just like they are leaving the teaching profession due to unfavorable conditions,” he stated, pressing for reforms to support officers genuinely committed to public service.
Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, commended Officer Tumusiime, pointing out that he had witnessed the officer’s hard work over several years. Ssenyonyi appealed to the public for respect towards law enforcement, noting that true professionalism and dedication deserve recognition while urging a thorough investigation into incidents involving violence, whether by officers or civilians.
