Following proceedings in Parliament on Tuesday where the Kyadondo East MP, Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine reported to the Speaker, Rebecca Kadaga that the Uganda Police Force were unfairly and illegally blocking his music shows countrywide, the police have responded saying that he is not following the guidelines they furnished him.
According to Emilian Kayima, the police spokesperson, the singing MP has been adamant to follow the guidelines they gave him yet he agreed to them during an indoor meeting with high profile police officers at Naguru Headquarters before the Kyarenga Concert in early November.
“Our guidelines were simple; organizers must write to the Inspector General of Police for clearances, put in place measures for controlling crowds, have the capacity to handle emergencies; medical provisions, fire safety systems, and thorough evacuation plans among others,” Kayima said.
According to the police, Bobi Wine’s Kyarenga concert proved that the musician did not have the capacity to handle huge crowds despite not reporting any incidents of violence.
They vowed to hold their ground until the MP cum politician has adhered to the issued guidelines.
The Speaker of Parliament on Tuesday tasked the Prime Minister, Ruhakana Rugunda to explain to Parliament if Bobi Wine is no longer allowed to practice his profession as other MPs in the House.
“Tell us if a lawyer who becomes MP cannot practice, a teacher cannot teach, a dancer cannot dance or a singer cannot sing,” the Speaker demanded.
Music promoters and managers have since dragged the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Martins Okoth Ochola, his deputy Sabiti Muzei and Asuman Mugyenyi for what Security minister, Elly Tumwine called an “occupational ard.”