Rukutana supporters protest minister’s detention as Akullo quizzes witnesses; forensic experts to examine guards’ guns

Supporters of junior minister for labour Mwesigwa Rukutana have protested his arrest and detention, saying he is a victim of political witch-hunt, and opponents framed him to sink his political career.

Holding placards written on messages calling for the unconditional release of the incumbent Rushenyi County MP, the supporters camped at Ntungamo District headquarters and defended Rukutana.

They said he didn’t shoot anyone as mainstream and social media have reported following the publication of a video showing Rukutana moving to shoot at a car with occupants said to be supporters of his opponent Naomi Kabasharira.

The minister’s supporters further argued that there were outside forces that had were determined to fight him out of Ntungamo politics.

They swore they loved the man who has represented the constituency for almost three decades, describing him as a wealthy citizen whose only motivation in keeping in politics was to improve service delivery.

The group, including youths, further claimed Rukutana had all the support he needed, and that his political enemies should let the majority carry the day.

AKULLO STEPS IN

Rwizi Region Police Spokesperson Samson Kasasira confirmed CID director Grace Akullo had taken over the case, visiting Dan Rweiburingi in hospital and the scene of crime in Ntungamo where she reportedly quizzed eye witnesses.

Kasasira says Akullo had found out that Rweiburingi’s injuries were not inflicted by gunshots but by an object yet to be identified.

He further revealed that police had invited forensic experts to examine Rukutana and his guards’ firearms to ascertain if they discharged bullets.

The forensic experts will also check if the holes in the car in which Rweiburingi was were drilled by bullets.

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