By Robert Segawa
Police at the Central Police Station (CPS) have this morning arrested the acting chairperson of the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), Hajji Isa Ssekito, on allegations of inciting violence and assaulting police officers on duty.
Earlier this week, traders in the city’s central business district decided to close their shops in protest against increased rent, high electricity bills, garbage collection fees, revenue collection on clothes sold by the kilo, and the growing presence of street vendors.
The traders are calling on the government to intervene and address what they describe as unfair rent increments by landlords, as well as additional charges for using toilets in the buildings they occupy.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, Hajji Ssekito was arrested by Divisional Police Commander (DPC) Abraham Tukundane to assist police with ongoing investigations.
“Police are yet to record his statement and will prefer appropriate charges against him,” Owoyesigyire said.
He added that police had earlier arrested thirteen (13) other suspects over similar allegations of inciting violence and assaulting officers who were performing their lawful duties. “The case file has been forwarded to the Resident State Attorney for perusal and legal advice,” he noted.
Owoyesigyire urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid acts that may incite violence or endanger others, especially those who have chosen to keep their shops open and continue normal business operations in the city centre.
He further assured the public that police will maintain a visible presence and deploy adequately within the city to deter any illegal activities and ensure that law and order prevail.
