The Uganda police force has permitted senior FDC officials to welcome Dr. Kiiza Besigye from Entebbe international airport as he returns from a month long trip in Europe and America.
According to Emiliano Kayima, the Kampala Metropolitan police spokesperson, FDC wrote to the force seeking permission to give their former party presidential candidate a grand welcome ceremony at the airport, then to the party headquarters in Najjanankumbi, and Katwe play grounds.
“FDC wrote to us saying that when he arrives, Besigye will hold a press conference at the airport, and then move to Najjanankumbi. When we sat with them for planning, FDC officials told us they did not want a crowd at the airport, and they also want a calm event” says Kayima.
We all know Entebbe road is very busy and the only road that connects Uganda to the airport, and if there is any disorganization, so many people will be affected, so we both agreed that a few senior officials should go to the airport and welcome him.
He added; “A few officials will be welcoming him and attending the press conference at the airport before heading to Najjanankumbi, from where he will connect to his home in Kasangati. During the meeting, we told them to contact Entebbe airport authorities (CAA) about the activities at the airport and if they have no problem, neither do we.”
Kayima also says the party requested for a police lead car to clear the way for Besigye which the force allowed to. “We also agreed that the responsibility of the procession belongs to police.”
Besigye was initially set to arrive yesterday Thursday 29th September, but would later postpone to 3rd October. Kayima however says they are ready to make sure the activities of the day are well managed.