Survivor's Harrowing Account Dominates Launch of 'Bloodshed for Power' Book

The launch of Mohsin Hassan’s book, “Bloodshed for Power: The Assassination of Uganda,” was marked by a deeply moving account from Professor Charles Kwesiga, a survivor of the Idi Amin era. Guests at the Four Points by Sheraton Kampala were captivated as Kwesiga, who was imprisoned alongside Hassan’s father, Mohamed Hassan, detailed the horrific experiences of his detention.

Kwesiga recounted being ordered, along with other inmates, to bury the body of the former Head of the Criminal Investigation Department, Mohamed Hassan. The harrowing ordeal continued when they were later forced to exhume the body for transport to Kampala. This personal testimony brought a profound emotional weight to the evening, which was attended by dignitaries including Retired Gen. Ivan Koreta and Gen. Katumba Wamala.

Mohsin Hassan explained that “Bloodshed for Power” shares his family’s story, long held silent, and serves as an invitation for Ugandans to confront the human toll of their nation’s tumultuous history. The book chronicles the rise and tragic end of his father, Mohamed Hassan, within the context of Uganda’s post-independence political struggles and the institutional collapse leading to Idi Amin’s rise to power.

A central element of the book is Mohamed Hassan’s investigation into the murders of Brigadier Pierino Okoya and his wife. Mohsin Hassan emphasized that his father was a dedicated policeman following evidence, not a political agitator seeking to change history. Kwesiga’s firsthand experience, including his arrest in 1971 and internment, provided a stark, immediate connection to the events described in the book. He shared the constant fear of execution and the grim task of digging graves for fellow prisoners, only to later learn they were intended for themselves.

Hassan stated that the book meticulously compiles historical records, police and court documents, personal accounts, and testimonies, aiming to preserve an accurate record for future generations and examine the enduring consequences of political violence. Gen. Katumba Wamala, closing the event, commended Hassan for his work and Kwesiga for his courage in sharing his story, urging young people to read the book to understand Uganda’s past.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/376946/survivor-testimony-grips-guests-at-launch-of-bloodshed-for-power