By Kampala Sun writer
Aspirant Candidate Ishaaq Ntege who is on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket contesting for Mayorship position in Bombo Town Council has been arrested.
He was arrested in Namaliga Parish in Luwero District with his campaign team; among them his sister Salmah Walusimbi.
Ntege was scheduled to address his supporters as he canvassed for votes ahead of the General Elections.
Ntege along with his sister Salmah Walusimbi and others were arrested on Wednesday afternoon following a scuffle between his supporters and security operatives at his campaign venue.
Police accuse Ntege of having more than 200 supporters recommended by the EC to contain further spread of Covid-19.
He is presently detained at Matugga Police post in Wakiso District. Ntege and Walusimbi’s arrest comes after the Inspector General of Police, Martin Okoth Ochola warned presidential candidates against defying Electoral Commission guidelines in a bid to prevent further spread of Covid-19.
Despite repeated warnings issued to candidates, their agents and wider public about the negative impact and health risks of holding unauthorized rallies and processions, we continue to witness acts of defiance and total disregard of the EC guidelines.
Therefore, those who shall defy these Electoral Commission guidelines with their sinister plans aimed at disrupting the Electoral process will definitely suffer consequences,” Mr Ochola said in a statement issued on Wednesday afternoon after arrest of the duo.
According to the IGP, police and their sister security agencies have adopted a tougher approach to preserve the integrity of the electoral process.
We have dispatched our specialist teams and quick reaction teams, to identify ring leaders (and principals) for apprehension in the face of crime. We have disseminated our comprehensive policing plan to all territorial commanders for them to implement without fear or favour,” he added.
Ntege has in the past days been seen addressing crowds in disregard of Covid-19 SOP s as he seeks to unseat the incumbent mayor Osman Kassim
However, the IGP said the Electoral and Political Offences Department at CID headquarters, has obtained videos of the respective campaign trails, and started gathering evidence to press formal charges, on candidates, campaign agents and influencers who are caught on the wrong side of the law.
