Uganda objects to 'unfair' EU resolution

By Halima Athumani

KAMPALA, Uganda

Uganda has taken objection to what it says is a tacit approval of indisciplined behavior by the European Union.

Last week the European Union parliament passed a resolution condemning the violence last month in the northern town of Arua during a by-election.

Monday, Uganda government spokesman Ofwono Opondo described the EU Parliament resolution as “unfair, not objective and unsubstantiated”.

Opondo, addressing the media in Kampala said: “Uganda objects to the condescending tone contained in the language of this resolution.”

The resolution is in reference to the Aug. 13 violence ahead of a by-election that was won by an Independent candidate Kasiano Wadri who now faces treason charges along with 33 others.

These include four legislators such as Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine. They are accused of pelting President Yoweri Museveni’s convoy with rocks and destroying property.

In a resolution, the European Union stated it was appalled by the violent repression from Ugandan security forces against peaceful protesters, the arrests of members of parliament and the allegations of torture applied by Ugandan soldiers.

The resolution also calls on Ugandan authorities to investigate and institute criminal proceedings against police officers who allegedly tortured and shot dead two other people.

Last week while addressing the nation, Uganda President Yoweri Museveni said desperate youths were being paid money through NGOs supported by foreign powers to disorganize the country.