The highly anticipated return of the English Premier League (EPL) season has not only ignited excitement among football fans but also led to a concerning rise in domestic violence cases in Jinja City.
According to the Kiira Regional Police spokesperson, SP James Mubi, there has been a significant increase in reports of domestic violence in the past few days, with many women complaining about their partners spending nights away from home under the pretext of watching football matches.
“…imagine women complaining that their husbands spend only two nights at home in a week, pretending to be watching football games, which ends up triggering quarrels and conflicts…,” Mubi stated.
Mubi revealed that 90% of the complaints filed by women and girlfriends in relationships allege that their partners have been spending nights outside their matrimonial homes, specifically citing the need to watch intense matches, such as the four-hour Arsenal vs Manchester United clash. The areas most affected by this trend include Mpumudde, Mafubira, Namulesa, Nakabango, Bugembe, Wairaka, Wanyange, and Kakira Town Council.
Many women are questioning why EPL fixtures are scheduled at night rather than during the day, adding to their frustrations.
“…this trend is alarming, and we urge men to prioritize their relationships and find alternative ways to enjoy the games without neglecting their responsibilities,” Mubi advised.
To address the situation, SP Mubi has encouraged women to stay informed about football schedules and updates by listening to local radio stations or accessing the internet for those with smartphones. As part of the effort to mitigate the situation, SP Mubi has recorded an audio message now being played on various radio stations and social media platforms, urging men to be considerate and live responsibly for the sake of family stability.
“…these men fool you because you do not have any information, but remember, knowledge or information is power, so stay alert and hold your spouses accountable,” he urged.
Women in the affected areas have welcomed the police counsel, believing it will help them protect themselves from deceitful partners who might expose them to risks, including HIV/AIDS.
One young, newlywed woman, who spoke on condition of anonymity, has promised to create a WhatsApp group with the hashtag “#StayInformedStaySafe,” where members can share football updates, including fixtures.
“…this will also help us raise awareness among ourselves and our spouses, who will be added to this platform. It will also serve as a forum for sharing information and marketing,” the mother of two revealed.
In response to the rising domestic violence, the police have launched a campaign through their routine community policing, led by Kenneth Ahimbisbwe, the Regional Community Liaison Officer (CLO), to educate men about the dangers and consequences of domestic violence.
By
Kenneth Wamatoyi
