Besigye Tormentor Sam Omara: I Refused Shs200m Bribe from Opposition during 2011 Walk-to-Work Protests

Former Kampala North Police Operations Commander Sam Omara, the man credited for quelling opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye’s walk-to-work protests in 2011, has made some key revelations about the demonstrations that shook President Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni and his government.

Omara confessed that he knew Besigye was well determined to remove Museveni from power through civil disobedience.

“If I and other officers like Kaweesa had not stopped Besigye, the current government would be no more,” said Omara in an interview with NBS.

“It was not an easy task; Besigye had become a big problem.”

He also claimed that police was divided into two groups: those supporting Besigye’s walk-to-work protests, and those opposed to it.

Omara’s confession confirms Besigye’s claim that there are some in the forces who are yearning for change from the Museveni regime.

In previous presidential elections, Besigye beat Museveni at some polling stations in barracks.

Now retired, Omara also made damning allegations against opposition politicians, claiming they were working with administrators and commandors in Gen Kale Kayihura-led police to ensure the success of walk-to-work protests.

He talked of a meeting at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala where the opposition reportedly offered him a sack full of Shs200m to let the protests go on.

Omara says he thought about his record and country and gave those seeking to bribe him a tough condition by asking for a figure three times what they had proposed, certain they couldn’t afford it.

He also blames Kayihura for not giving him a clear answer when he consulted him regarding the bribe.

The retired police officer also blames government for no recognizing and appreciating his efforts which he believes stopped Besigye from ending Museveni’s rule.

“They don’t remember you when you are still alive; They appreciate you when you are gone,” said Omara.

“You work but credit goes to your bosses.”