Kampala: At least two people have died in riots in Uganda’s capital over the treatment of opposition leader Kizza Besigye. Security forces fired live ammunition, rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse protesters burning tyres.
Dr Besigye sought medical treatment after being tear-gassed in his car and bundled roughly into a truck when he was arrested on Thursday.
He later left Uganda for treatment in Kenya, and witnesses said he had to be supported as he boarded a plane.
It was Dr Besigye’s fourth detention this month for his participation in a “walk-to-work” protest over high prices.
President Yoweri Museveni has said the walking campaign over the rise in the cost of living is illegal.
Ugandan Information Minister Kabakumba Matsiko told media the situation was now “under control” and the unrest would not be allowed to carry on.
“I would like to reassure the world that the government is in charge, and we are going to improve the security situation. We’re not going to encourage worthless demonstrations which don’t have clear and genuine objectives to continue,” Matsiko said.
After his arrest on Thursday Dr Besigye was charged with inciting violence but was released on medical grounds until May 2.
Dr Besigye was taken to hospital from the court because he had been temporarily blinded.
On Friday evening, he was allowed by the authorities to fly to Kenya.
Our reporter says footage of the arrest was broadcast on Ugandan television and the video-sharing website YouTube.
It showed plain-clothed policemen beating up Dr Besigye’s supporters, smashing the window of his car and dousing the inside with pepper spray and tear gas before manhandling him into a vehicle and driving off.
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