U.S. Embassy Demands Answers for Kyarenga Concert Cancellation

The American embassy in Uganda has on Tuesday released a statement on recent events in Kampala in which it demanded for an explanation for the cancellation of Kyadondo East MP, Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine’s concerts.

“Today we join the many Ugandans asking why their government has recently blocked musical concerts and radio talk shows, disrupted peaceful demonstrations and rallies, and deployed heavy-handed security forces against peaceful citizens,”the statement read.

The embassy encouraged Ugandans to continue defending and fighting for human rights regardless of any external intimidation.

“Uganda’s constitution guarantees freedom of assembly and expression.  We echo the Ugandan people in calling on the government to respect these rights.  Strong leaders and states do not stifle speech – they allow their citizens to participate fully and without fear in a vibrant multi-party democracy,” the statement added.

On Easter Monday the inspector general of police, Martin Okoth Ochola cancelled Bobiwine concert that was scheduled at his beach in Busabala.

In a letter signed by the assistant inspector general of police, Asuman Mugenyi, the police director of operation on behalf of the IGP, police noted that Kyagulanyi’s previous music concerts held at his One Love beach posed alot of security threats to the revellers and the local residents.