Politicians who have resorted to walking barefoot to make political statements are exposing themselves to several infections, according to health experts.
Forum for Democratic Change – FDC
party presidential candidate Patrick Oboi Amuriat arrived barefoot at the
nomination center after a scuffle with security officers. The dramatic scene
attracted public’s attention and sympathy.
Amuriat has since been walking barefooted as a signature stunt, following
events on his nomination day when he was dragged to the nomination venue in
Kyambogo after losing his shoes in a scuffle with the police.
He has since then launched a nationwide crusade dubbed “barefoot revolution” in protest of the indignity meted against him, with time many FDC candidates in different areas have adopted it.
While moving in feet may give some politicians political mileage, health experts say this exposes politician to severe infections like worms, tetanus, scabies, and bilharzia.
Dr Fred Mulabya, an environment health specialist at the ministry of health says the move which might look heroic, is exposing the candidates to several avoidable infections. Dr. Fred 1 on diseases;….
According to Dr.Mulabya, the ground is full of different kinds of disease such as hookworms that can lead to death if not treated early.
Apart from exposing one to diseases, walking in feet can lead to cracks, sores, sharp objects and even swelling of feet. END.
