Makerere University guild campaign rally at Lumumba hall yesterday evening turned chaotic after supporters of Nicholas Ssekidde, the newest entrant into the race, were clobbered by students meant to provide security at the hall.

Nicholas Ssekidde is a second year student, pursuing  bachelors degree of Arts in economics (BAE).

The Gongom Guard Brigade (GGB) beat Ssekidde’s supporters to pulp for failing to observe silence, which was a must at the rally.

The EC condemned the act by the GGB and asked all students for total respect to all candidates for the sacrifice they make for the betterment of the institution.

 “We cannot allow this: Makerere must exist even after elections, these candidates have sacrificed a lot for a better Makerere, so, we need total respect,” Ndamwesiga commented. “These barbaric acts must be condemned in this political caricature” he added.
 

 The Makerere Electoral Commision Public Relations Officer, Ian Ndamwesiga had earlier declared to the public of a new candidate who had been dully nominated, following delayed clearance from the University Council over missing marks.

This raised the number of candidates to 13. Ssekidde however, did not keep time to reach the rally venue on time due to reasons clearly known to him. It is for this reason (late coming), that Ssekidde was blocked from attending the rally.

He therefore remained out of the locked Lumumba premises with his supporters and the band members who kept praising and singing for their candidate, something the GGB deemed unlawful and an insult.  

The GGB therefore attacked Ssekidde’s camp mercilessly, caning and confiscating campaigning materials such as; posters, banners and the band equipment, among others. The scuffle that lasted for about 30 minutes left Derrick Rwagura, a member of Ssekidde’s camp, with minor injuries.

“This is the worst experience to my have to my camp.” Ssekidde told us on phone. “However, the confiscated materials were later released to us and we call for calmness.” he added.