The two opposition MPs representing Makindye West and Lubaga North constituencies respectively were summoned to record statements at the Masaka Central Police Station concerning mysterious machete attacks that have happened in the area in the recent past.
Although the MPs were expected to report at the Criminal Investigations Department-CID office at 10:00Am, the situation become tense as early as 8.00am, when security operatives amounted roadblocks on the main roads through Masaka town.
For hours, the road which passes adjacent to Masaka Central Police station was closed from other motorists who resorted to using alternative shortcuts.
There was heightened security deployment of both armed anti riot and plain clothed officers in Masaka town.
Police also had to block other Members of Parliament who had arrived ahead of their colleagues who were summoned.
Those that were turned away included Shamim Malende -Kampala Woman MP, Joseph Ssewungu for Kalungu West, David Lukyamuzi Kalwanga and Francis Katabaazi for Kalungu East. According to Malende, they had come to stand in solidarity with their colleagues as they appeared to police as required.
“I had also come as a lawyer but these officers tell us they have orders not allow us in,” she noted shortly after police forced her away from the main entrance of Masaka Central Police station.
Muhammad Nsubuga, the Greater Masaka Regional Police Spokesman says they obtained intelligence that the crowds would converge as soon the summoned MPs arrived in Masaka.
“We didn’t want to take any risks. So we had to be on the alert to prevent any eventualities, we don’t want any chaos,” he said.
At half past midday, the two MPs Ssewanyana and Ssegirinya arrived at police in company of their lawyers who include Kampala Mayor Elias Lukwago.
They were ushered into the police station and questioned.
