KAMPALA- Opposition leader Kizza Besigye has said the killing of police officer Muhammad Kirumira is a depiction of a state in crisis.
Kirumira was shot together with his sister-in law, Resty Nalinya, in the former’s car as the duo arrived at Kirumira’s home in Bulenga near Kampala. Nalinya died on the spot while Kirumira was confirmed dead at Lubaga hospital
And speaking at Gaddafi mosque during prayers held for Kirumira, Dr Besigye said the country is at a crossroads.
“Kirumira fought for equity, justice and good governance. We should strengthened by the will to fight until we succeed. His horrific killing, by gunfire, is another major tragic incident depicting Uganda’s deep and intensifying crisis,” he said.
The four-time presidential candidate added that Kirumira’s death should unite Ugandans to demand for change.
“As we lay to rest our comrade, we must unite and work together to see that the change; the reforms and justice he fought for are achieved soon in his memory. His gruesome death should never be in vain. We must fight together to regain our country that has been captured by a few people. When we say people power, that’s what we mean-Power to the people,” Dr Besigye said.
“Even if the killers try everything possible to kill opponents, they will not kill or destroy ideals for which they stood and fought for. Muhammad Kirumura was a potent voice of reason; voice of reform; voice of good governance and voice of the voiceless. His voice has been silenced but his Ideals and values will not be silenced. May Allah judge him fairly and receive him gloriously in Jannah!”
In his 13 year journey serving in the police force, Kirumira had earned popularity for his fearless confrontation of criminals and exposing officers he claimed worked with junior and senior police officers.
This in the same vein put him at crossroads with his very own institution as was he occasionally arrested on accusation of soliciting bribes from criminals and abusing his office.
Police spokesperson, Emilian Kayima, said police was saddened by the gruesome murder of ASP Kirumira and said security agencies were doing all possible to have culprit apprehended. “The assassination is yet another gruesome one. The information we have they used the bodaboda. Security agencies are putting hands together to have criminals arrested. We condemn these acts and we pledge total resolve on protecting Ugandans,” Mr Kayima said.