Mr Wilson Kwanya, the Regional Police Commander (RPC) in-charge of Aswa region has said the force cannot avoid the use of minimum force especially during demonstrations.
Kwanya explained that, “Application of minimum force can be done in a violent situation in order to protect the lives of those who are not participating in such an event.”
He adds that police are human and they can get killed in the process.
The RPC noted if a crowd becomes rowdy; it is the duty of the police to protect lives and property of the ordinary people in such situation.
Kwanya also says in a situation where a suspect is resisting lawful arrest, a police officer is entitled to apply minimum force.
He explained that the reason why police are armed with tear gas canisters, rubber bullets and guns is because they prepare for the worst in case their lives are at risk.
He accordingly asked the organizers of demonstrations and political rallies to seek guidance from police so that they are not interrupted.
The RPC also explained that the Public Management Act does not grant police authority to stop the rally but rather to offer security.
Police has always come under heavy criticism from a section of the public over brutal arrest of opposition party supporters and suspects.
Police has also been accused of suppressing demonstrations organized by opposition parties.
In April 2011, Kiiza Besigye, the former President Forum for Democratic (FDC) party was shoved under a waiting police pick-up truck after his arrest.
