Police scuttle Forum for Democratic Change rally
Uganda's four-time presidential contender Kizza Besigye was Tuesday arrested after police scuttled a rally he was expected to address in Mbarara District west of Kampala.
The security personnel fired teargas and live bullets to disperse the supporters of the former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate.
A scuffle ensued when the police blocked Dr Besigye's car from passing through Mbarara Town High Street, on his way to Kakyeka stadium where Mr Patrick Amuriat Oboi, who is vying for the FDC presidency, was expected to address a rally ahead of the November 21 election.
Dr Besigye, his driver and the FDC secretary for mobilisation, Ms Ingrid Turinawe, were arrested and detained at Mbarara Central Police Station.
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Regional police spokesperson Samson Kasasira said the three were later charged with inciting violence.
Dr Besigye and Ms Turinawe had at about 2pm (+3GMT) left the Grand Holiday Hotel to Kakyeka stadium, before being intercepted at Ahamahembe Gente where they were arrested.
Supporters started pelting the police with stones, as the law enforcers fired live bullets, tear gas and sprayed water into shops where suspected protesters were hiding.
Some traders were seen closing their businesses as police and the Dr Besigye supporters continued to exchange stones and bullets.