Uganda’s Justice Minister Kahinda Otafiire has said the country’s army will crush politicians using the “People Power” slogan to “disorganise the country”

The slogan is used by opposition politician Bobi Wine, a musician-turned-politician, to rally support against President Yoweri Museveni’s government.

Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has declared that he will challenge Mr Museveni for the presidency in the 2021 election.

Mr Otafiire, who is a Major General in the Ugandan army, told a meeting in the south-western town of Kashenshero on Tuesday that “People Power” is only vested in local councils (LCs), the newspaper reports.

“I have heard all this noise about people power; which power do you represent? Where are these people? The one we know is the LCI chairperson, people power is exercised by the LCI chairperson through the ballot box,” Mr Otafiire is quoted as saying.

“We will guard this power using the army and air force. Whoever tries to disrupt this power, you are welcome but what will come next, don’t regret… Yes, you can attempt to remove government through violence. I don’t say it is not possible but know it is not easy and be prepared for the consequences,” he added.

Bobi Wine has condemned the minister’s remarks in a tweet, saying the military must remain non-partisan.