Kampala — Buganda lawmakers yesterday joined the chorus of condemnation for Wednesday's fatal killing of three civilians in the aftermath of the Kasubi Tombs inferno. The MPs demanded a government apology for the deaths and said there is no plausible excuse to defend the use of lethal action by security operatives as President Museveni snaked his way into Kasubi even though unruly kingdom subjects pelted his convoy with stones.

The MPs buried their political differences and put loyalty to kingdom ahead of political parties as they set out a string of demands that includes the reopening of CBS radio which was switched off by government in the aftermath of September 2009 pro-Buganda riots. "As we condemn the acts of brutality by the security services," said Caucus Chair MP Rose Namayanja, "We also condemn the acts of hooliganism that followed Tuesday night's catastrophe."

The Nakaseke Woman MP made the comments at a news conference at Parliament flanked by fellow Buganda MPs. "If the government doesn't apologise," said Mr Hussein Kyanjo (Makindye West), "It will continue to make people feel it was involved and an apology will cool the waters."

EU statement

Meanwhile, yesterday, the European Union mission extended its deepest sympathies and regret for the loss of the world heritage site also demanded a quick and transparent investigation.

The head of EU delegation to Uganda, Vincent De Visscher, said in a statement: "The EU believes it is important that there is a thorough transparent investigation into the unfortunate events." The government and the Kingdom yesterday agreed to form a joint committee to ensure immediate restoration of the destroyed royal tombs.