Police Suspends NUP Consultations Following Deadly Crash
The Uganda Police Force has suspended all National Unity Platform (NUP) consultative activities following a fatal traffic accident. Police Spokesperson Fred Enanga announced the decision after the tragic event, which occurred on May 31, 2024, around 10:00 AM at St. Lawrence College, Maya, along the Kampala-Masaka Highway.
Accident Details and Immediate Response
The accident resulted in the deaths of three people and injuries to several others. According to the police, the collision involved two motor vehicles and four motorcycles that were part of a motorcade for NUP leaders heading to Masaka for consultative meetings. The injured individuals were taken to medical facilities, which have not yet been identified by the police.
Enanga attributed the accident to the recklessness of drivers and riders in the motorcade, who were allegedly speeding without regard for other road users. He emphasized that the incident underscored a lack of discipline and adherence to traffic regulations.
Meeting and Agreement Breach
Enanga mentioned that the police leadership had met with NUP officials on May 27, 2024, to outline guidelines for conducting their consultative meetings. Despite this agreement, the police claim that NUP disregarded the terms, leading to the unfortunate incident at Maya.
Police Decision and Public Appeal
As the agency responsible for maintaining law and order, the police decided to halt all further NUP consultative activities with immediate effect. This suspension will remain in place until the matter is thoroughly investigated and resolved.
Enanga urged the public to remain vigilant and adhere to the law. He warned that anyone who violates public order and safety would be held accountable under Ugandan law. The safety of Ugandans, he stated, remains the police’s top priority.
Public Reaction and Criticism
The police’s decision has sparked widespread criticism, particularly on social media. Many Ugandans have expressed their disapproval of the police’s response, accusing them of bias and double standards.
One user, Patrick, questioned the fairness of the decision, pointing out that a police vehicle had recently caused an accident without similar repercussions. Another user, known as “The Boss,” highlighted other incidents where government officials were involved in accidents without facing equivalent actions.
Critics argued that accidents are common and should not lead to the suspension of a political party’s activities. They called for individual accountability rather than collective punishment. For instance, Kakooza stated that criminal responsibility is personal and should not be extended to an entire political party.
Broader Concerns and Allegations
Many comments reflected broader concerns about political repression and lack of freedom in Uganda. Joseph Mulema lamented the long-standing oppression by institutions meant to serve the public, while Suuna James questioned why similar actions were not taken following other fatal accidents, such as the Namugongo pilgrimage incident.
Others, like Dan Wandera Ogalo, criticized the police for focusing on political activities instead of addressing rising crime rates. Some suggested that the suspension of NUP activities was politically motivated, aimed at stifling the opposition.
