Hoima police arrest activist for alleged threats at protest against Bunyoro PM

18 September 2024, 11:05 pm

By James Muhumuza

There is a heavy deployment of both anti-riot police and the military in Hoima City ahead of a planned demonstration against Andrew Byakutaga, the Prime Minister of the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, who has refused to step down from office.

Hoima police have confirmed the arrest of Brian Aliguma, a resident of the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, for allegedly threatening violence during a demonstration calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Andrew Kirungi Byakutaga.

Aliguma, along with a group of youths, staged a peaceful protest today following the swearing-in of the interim Kingdom leadership led by Prime Minister Baltaza Kasilivu Kyamaywa. The ceremony, conducted by Chief Prince Engineer Fred Mugenyi Ruchuya, further heightened tensions within the Kingdom.

Byakutaga, whose term expired last October, has refused to step down, arguing that the Chief Prince lacks the authority to dismiss him. Although Aliguma and his group carried banners demanding Byakutaga’s resignation, his arrest has further escalated the situation.

According to Julius Allan Hakiza, the Albertine Region Police spokesperson, Aliguma faces charges of threatening violence against Kingdom subjects. Hakiza also stated that the police would maintain a strong presence at the Kingdom offices until the leadership dispute is resolved.