Police Apologize for Roughing Up Journalists Covering Kirumira Case

The Uganda Police Force has shown remorse for maltreatment of journalists who were set to cover proceedings at the Naguru police disciplinary court on Tuesday in which ruling on charges against former Buyende DPC Muhammad Kirumira was to be delivered.

Journalists who had gathered at the court were at first denied access into the premises before roughing them up as they tried to move inside. The reporters tried to enter the premises after ASP Muhammad Kirumira forcefully opened the gate to give them way.

While speaking to journalists in Kampala, the Police spokesperson, SSP Emilian Kayima described the act of denying the journalists access to court as “unfortunate” and regrettable.

“Open courts are supposed to be attended by everyone and in case there is any directive, it should be communicated. Unfortunately, today there was no directive,” Kayima said.

Mr Kirumira is accused of corruption, excessive use of authority, neglect of duty and scandalous behaviour contrary to the police act which he allegedly committed at the time when he was the DPC Old Kampala police station and OC Nansana police station.

The ruling was not delivered today as earlier scheduled, Kirumira walked away protesting denial of media access to the proceedings.