Besigye rally in Makerere nipped in the bud

The February rays descend upon the deserted Freedom square where an occasional student braves the afternoon heat across the vast grounds. On the outskirts of the grounds ever green trees border the scene; beneath the trees small covens of students rest, shielding themselves from the hot sun, their faces tell the story; a cocktail of uncertainty, mild fear, patience and hope. It’s not difficult to tell who they’re waiting for. They’re here anticipating the arrival of the ” people’s president.” They’ve been waiting hours on end.

Also Checkout PICTORIAL: One shot dead as bullets and teargas rock Wandegeya

“I came here at Midday, I decided to forego lunch and come here.” remarks a female student.

A band of students combs the entire university mobilising students, another mobile foot brigade, goes around chanting led by Magumba Musa “commander 1”

A scarlet red carpet snakes halfway the length of Freedom square, the rally venue…

FDC contestants campaign while the wait, moods are jubilant, uncertain yet hopeful.
Defiant, brave, determined.

Adam the Toka kwa Barabara singer jumps on stage and students go crazy. They sing, sway and dance along.

A solo bullet shot temporarily quietens down the crowd. The MC chants; “Eh Tear gas zeeeee!”
“Zeeeee!” The crowd choruses back in unison.

Hopes rise and fall in quick succession. A fellow known as holding a giant blue wooden key, donning black shades, and thick lumber boots rises to the stage;
“Our president has been arrested, he’s held up at Wandegeya, we must go and bring him here.”
He doesn’t say more, the bitter crowd turns and makes way to the proverbial main gate!