Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) John Ngaruye Ndungutse has taken legal action against soldiers of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), accusing them of assaulting him and destroying his property during the recent NRM party primaries.

Ndungutse, who now practices as an advocate, was among the contestants vying for the Kinkiizi West Member of Parliament flagbearer slot under the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the primaries held on Thursday.

According to sources close to the incident, the altercation occurred during the voting process in Kanungu District, where tensions flared between supporters of rival candidates.

Ndungutse claims that UPDF soldiers, deployed for election security, physically assaulted him without provocation and caused significant damage to his property.

He alleges that the attack was politically motivated and intended to frustrate his campaign and intimidate his supporters in the constituency.

The retired police officer has since filed a formal complaint and is pursuing legal redress through the courts of law, calling for accountability and justice.

Speaking to reporters, Ndungutse emphasized that no one, including members of the armed forces, should be above the law, especially in matters involving civilian rights.

He urged the NRM and the Electoral Commission to investigate the conduct of the security personnel during the primaries to ensure free and fair political competition.