About 10 policemen armed with a police dog and batons on December 31 attempted to disperse hundreds of Christians who had gathered at the Kabale Main Stadium for over-night prayers to celebrate the New Year 2007.

The policemen said the gathering was illegal and was a security threat.

Pastor Aloysious Kiiza of Lift up Jesus Global ministries, who organised the function, insisted he had been permitted by the officer in charge Kabale Police Station Joab Wabwire. He displayed a letter which he said had been written by Mr Wabwire. As haggling between the church leaders and the armed policemen continued, Christians abandoned the main platform, gathered in the pavilion and continued praying.

Mr Wabwire later arrived at the scene around 11:00pm and calmed the situation. He told the believers to continue with prayers but asked them not to play loud music.

"You can continue with your prayers but ensure you don't play loud music to disorganise other people praying in the neighbourhood. Be peaceful." Mr Wabwire said.

When the prayers resumed, Pastor Kiiza asked residents to love one another before they can love God.

"I pray for prosperity in this country, I pray for President Museveni for his continued visionary leadership together with his cabinet ministers and the different security organisations to keep peace in the country," Pastor Kiiza said.

"God bless all leaders in this country so that 2007 is a year of development and prosperity."