RDC Nyakahuma Extends Government Apology for Prolonged Power Outages in Kabale, Urges Cancellation of Planned Protest

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Summary:

• Protestors accuse UMEME of constant power shutdowns, significantly disrupting services in the region.

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KABALE: Security authorities in Kabale District have urged the organizers of an impending protest against power outages to call it off, stating that it would be disruptive given the clear explanation received from the concerned parties.

This appeal follows ongoing social media mobilization for a peaceful demonstration scheduled for August 9, 2024 { tomorrow}, dubbed “March to Kabale UMEME Offices.” Concerned residents organized the protest in response to frequent power outages in the area. Protestors accuse UMEME of constant power shutdowns, significantly disrupting services in the region.

The Kabale Resident District Commissioner, Godfrey Nyakahuma, apologized on behalf of the government to residents in Kabale for the prolonged power outages. RDC Nyakahuma acknowledged that power outages have not only damaged electrical appliances and devices but have also hindered businesses reliant on electricity.

He stated that the ruling NRM government believes in transparency and accountability. He emphasized that if people have grievances against the government, it is the government’s responsibility to address them and explain why issues such as power outages are occurring.

He mentioned that after engaging officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Kabale District Local Government, top security officials from the Kigezi Regional Police, the UPDF’s 311 Battalion, and representatives of the business communities in Kabale District, Rukiga, Rubanda, and parts of Ntungamo, it is imperative for the organizers of the protest to call it off unless they have other intentions.

CUE IN RDC NYAKAHUMA…..ON PROTEST……..RR/ENG//

The Kigezi Regional Assistant Police Commander SSP James Kawalya warned the demonstrators to act within the law, stating that if the protest disrupts other activities, they are ready to respond. He added that demonstrations can harbor bad elements, so protestors should be aware of the consequences. He mentioned that they have enough teargas to disperse crowds and encouraged the demonstrators to engage in dialogue instead.

CUE IN SSP KAWALYA…..ON DEMONSTRATION…….ENG//

In a letter dated August 1, 2024, addressed to the Inspector General of Police, a section of residents in Kabale Municipality sought police clearance for a protest against UMEME due to daily power blackouts, delayed response from UMEME on reported incidents, sharing clients’ information with scammers, and poor customer care by UMEME staff, among other reasons.

According to UMEME, the problem of power outages will be resolved once the construction of the Kabale substation in Karukara, Hamurwa town council, Rubanda District is completed.