Just a few days ago, Kampala City came to a standstill with rioters burning tyres and vehicles. This scenerio did happened in Singapore many many years ago. Living in Uganda is just like living in Singapore in the early 50’s and 60’s where the society was still unstable with conflicts. This riots reminded me of the “Hock Lee Bus” riot incident. I was still very young then. Looking at Uganda at this stage, one can really appreciate how far Singapore had come. A peaceful and prosperous Country.
I remembered in 2005, I was caught in one of the riots. The teargas was so stinging that I could not open my eyes, tearing non stop and was gasping for breath. I have to wet my shirt to cover my face from the pain. The police were firing teargas all over the city dispersing the rioters. Some were even shot with live bullets. At least this time round, the police were ordered to fire only rubber bullets. Life here is really a wealth of experiences. In fact it is here that I began to treasure what life has to offer. Never taking things for granted. The struggle is never ending but still I will strive together with my fellow beekeepers for a better life. When I looked back, I felt how blessed Singaporeans are now.
Lesster Leow
