Uganda’s Amama Mbabazi: I will not back down after arrest
Uganda’s former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi has told the BBC he “will not back down” in his preparations for a presidential bid, despite his arrest on Thursday.
Mr Mbabazi, a former close ally of President Yoweri Museveni, was arrested while travelling to canvass support.
The government says that he violated public order laws by attempting to hold meetings without permission.
The president is widely expected to seek re-election next year.
Leading opposition figure Kizza Besigye was also arrested on Thursday ahead of a planned campaign rally outside the capital Kamapala.
Both men were later freed.
Mr Mbabazi said he held President Museveni directly responsible for his arrest.
Last month, Mr Mbabazi said he would challenge Mr Museveni, 70, by seeking the nomination of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
A vibrant writer who gives a great insight on hot topics and issues
