Babalanda says killings happened under their watch as government orders security agencies to tighten discipline ahead of remaining local elections
JINJA — The Government has withdrawn the Jinja Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Ahmed Kateregga, and his deputy, Hassan Kasibante, following the deaths of two residents during violent Local Council 1 (LC1) elections in the district.
The decision was announced by the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, who said the two officials were responsible for coordinating security in the district and therefore had to answer for the deadly incidents that occurred during the polls.
The withdrawal follows growing concern over the conduct of security personnel during the ongoing local elections, particularly after two young men were shot in separate incidents in Jinja.
Minister Babalanda said the deaths were regrettable and should not have happened, arguing that security officers had other options to control the situation without resorting to live ammunition.
One of the victims was Fred Kalulu, 19, who was shot at Buwenge Progressive Academy polling station during the election of the LC1 chairperson for Kabi Zone in Kamwanyi Ward, Buwenge Town Council, on July 28.
The second victim, Latib Ikaali, 23, a university student, sustained bullet injuries and later died after being rushed to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital.
Babalanda said the incidents attracted the attention of President Yoweri Museveni and Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba, with the government acknowledging responsibility for the deaths.
She said the police officer involved could have handled the situation differently, including firing into the air rather than directly shooting at people.
RDCs told to take charge
Babalanda said the incidents had exposed weaknesses in the coordination between security agencies and Resident District and City Commissioners, who serve as heads of security in their respective areas.
She urged security officers to remain professional and neutral throughout the electoral process.
“Leave people to make their choices and celebrate as you give them security,” Babalanda told security personnel.
She further warned against security officers taking sides in political contests, saying such conduct can easily turn ordinary disagreements at polling stations into violent confrontations.
The minister directed Security Minister Jim Muhwezi and Police chief Abas Byakagaba to ensure that security personnel are properly guided as the country proceeds with the remaining local elections.
Families receive condolences
Babalanda also delivered President Museveni’s condolence contribution of Sh10 million to each of the two bereaved families.
Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba also contributed Sh5 million to each family as a gesture of condolence.
The minister said government did not want a repeat of the Jinja incidents in other parts of the country, particularly as the remaining LC1 and parish-level electoral activities continue.
Jinja results
Meanwhile, Jinja Resident City Commissioner Salim Kumakech briefed the minister on the outcome of the LC1 elections in the area.
According to the figures presented, National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidates won 105 of the 141 villages, while independent candidates secured 20 seats. National Unity Platform (NUP) candidates won 13 villages, while the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) took three.
The withdrawal of the Jinja RDC and his deputy is expected to increase scrutiny of security deployment during the remaining local elections, with government seeking to prevent further loss of life and ensure that voters are allowed to participate without intimidation or violence.
