Category: Daily Monitor

Clerk to Parliament, Mr Adolf Mwesige says he is waiting for opposition parties to submit their nominees to the Appointments Committee of the 12th Parliament, as pressure builds to vet President Museveni’s new Cabinet.

The committee’s composition is urgently needed because, by law, all presidential ministerial nominees must be vetted by Parliament before assuming office.

Addressing MPs, Mwesige stressed that Parliament’s work is driven through committees, a system introduced under the 1995 Constitution to strengthen scrutiny, oversight, and accountability.

‘Most of the work of Parliament is processed through committees,’ he said. ‘Committees scrutinize legislation, review Auditor General’s reports, and conduct oversight before presenting recommendations to the plenary for consideration.’

Under Uganda’s multiparty system, membership to sectoral and standing committees is allocated by party whips based on each party’s strength in the House. Parties are now expected to submit lists of MPs for committee assignments, and the process is already underway.

Mwesige said the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has submitted its nominees for the influential Appointments Committee, but other parties have not yet done so.

‘I’m informed that the NRM political organisation has already submitted its list for membership to the Appointments Committee, and we are waiting for other political parties also to submit their proposals,’ he told MPs.

The Appointments Committee is chaired by the Speaker and deputized by the Deputy Speaker. Members include the Prime Minister and Leader of Government Business, the Leader of Opposition, the Government Chief Whip, and the Opposition Whip. It comprises between 20 and 40 members drawn from all political parties and independents, based on their numerical strength in Parliament.

With 528 MPs in the 12th Parliament, the NRM holds 372 seats, about 70 percent of the House. The National Unity Platform has 49 seats, UPC 12, FDC nine, DP six, PFF two, and ANT one. There are also 68 independent MPs and 10 representatives of the UPDF.

Independent MPs are not nominated by party whips. Mwesige explained they must apply directly to the Clerk’s office, indicating the committees they wish to join. Their names are then forwarded to the Speaker for assignment based on interest and qualifications. Independents make up nearly 12 percent of the House, making them a significant bloc in committee representation.

Mwesige reminded MPs that the Appointments Committee operates differently from other committees. Its proceedings are held in camera, closed to the public and to non-members. Unlike sectoral committees, where any MP can attend as an observer, access is restricted strictly to members.

The committee also exercises delegated constitutional authority and does not report back to the plenary after vetting presidential nominees.

‘Once the Appointments Committee has considered the presidential appointments and approved them, it does not have to report to the plenary. Their decision is final,’ he said.

That means the committee’s decision effectively determines whether nominees join Cabinet.

Beyond the immediate vetting, Mwesige urged MPs to study the Rules of Procedure and choose committees that match their expertise and interests. The 12th Parliament will operate through sectoral committees renewed each session and standing committees that handle broader oversight, including accountability work through the Public Accounts Committee and its divisions.

With committee formation now underway, Parliament’s internal organization is taking shape ahead of the presentation of President Museveni’s Cabinet and the start of substantive legislative business.

When contacted, NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya did not pick or return calls on the party’s progress in designating members to committees, including the Leader of Opposition and Opposition Chief Whip.

Scholars have always said a nation is not destroyed by its enemies, but by the corruption of its own leaders.

When corruption becomes normal, suffering becomes permanent. For decades, Uganda has been bleeding from a wound that refuses to heal. That wound is corruption. It has eaten through the country’s institutions, destroyed public trust, weakened the economy, and stolen the future of millions of ordinary citizens.

Corruption is no longer just a problem in Uganda, it has become a national tragedy. Ugandans wake up every day to broken hospitals, collapsing schools, impassable roads, unemployment, poverty, and insecurity.

Yet billions of shillings disappear every year through theft, inflated contracts, ghost workers, bribery, embezzlement, and abuse of public office.

Leaders who were entrusted to protect the nation have instead turned public offices into personal businesses. While citizens struggle to survive, a small group of powerful individuals grows richer through the suffering of the people.

Corruption has killed the healthcare system. Patients die in hospitals without medicine because funds meant for drugs are stolen. Mothers give birth on dirty floors while officials drive luxury vehicles purchased with public money. Doctors and nurses work under impossible conditions because resources vanish before they reach hospitals.

How many Ugandans have died not because diseases were incurable, but because corruption stole their chance to live? Corruption has killed education. Children study under trees while education funds disappear into private pockets.

Teachers are underpaid and demoralised while billions are wasted on fake projects and endless scandals. A nation that fails to educate its children is preparing for a future of poverty, crime, and hopelessness.

Corruption has also destroyed justice.

Parliament, which is supposed to protect the people and defend national interests, has increasingly been viewed by many Ugandans as one of the biggest institutions promoting corruption and misuse of public resources.

Instead of acting as a strong watchdog against theft and abuse of power, Parliament has repeatedly been associated with scandals involving excessive spending, questionable allocations, inflated budgets, and political favouritism.

While millions of citizens struggle with poverty, unemployment, and failing public services, lawmakers are often accused of prioritising personal benefits over the suffering of ordinary Ugandans. This is why everyone in Uganda wants to be an MP.

The growing public anger toward Parliament reflects a deeper crisis of trust. Citizens are losing confidence in leaders who appear disconnected from the realities of the people they represent.

The economy continues to suffer because corruption scares away investors, destroys accountability, and increases unemployment.

Young people graduate from universities only to face joblessness because opportunities are reserved for those with connections, money, or political influence. Merit has been replaced by favouritism. Hard work no longer guarantees success.

The most painful part is that corruption has become normalised. Ugandans have witnessed scandal after scandal involving powerful public officials, including controversies surrounding high ranking leaders.

These stories dominate headlines, spark public outrage, and then slowly fade away without meaningful accountability.

This cycle has deepened public anger and convinced many citizens that corruption is protected at the highest levels of power. People are told that bribery is ‘how the system works.’ Public officials steal openly without shame. Scandals erupt every year, but very few powerful individuals are ever held accountable.

This is not the Uganda that those who received the reigns of independence, dreamed of. A nation blessed with fertile land, natural resources, hard-working citizens, and immense potential should not be drowning in poverty and despair.

Ugandans must stop accepting corruption as inevitable. Citizens must demand accountability, transparency, and justice.

The fight against corruption is not only for politicians or activists, it is a fight for every Ugandan who dreams of a better future.

Silence only strengthens corruption. Fear only empowers thieves. If Uganda is to survive and prosper, the culture of impunity must end.

Corruption has already stolen too many dreams, destroyed too many families, and buried too many futures.

The country cannot continue on this path. Corruption is a silent war against Ugandans. Until corruption is defeated, Uganda will never fully rise. And that is the painful truth.

Former State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Henry Okello Oryem has expressed disappointment after being dropped from Cabinet in President Museveni’s latest reshuffle.

Oryem, who served in the Foreign Affairs docket since 2004, was one of two ministers from the Acholi sub-region left out in the shake-up. He was replaced by Calvin Echodu. Kenneth Omona, former State Minister for Northern Uganda Rehabilitation, was also dropped and appointed ambassador, with Beatrice Akello Akori taking his place.

Speaking to this reporter on Wednesday, Oryem admitted the decision stung but thanked the President for entrusting him with one of government’s most sensitive portfolios for more than 20 years.

‘Well, first of all, naturally, I’m disappointed like any human being. However, having served since 2004 in the same docket, I am highly grateful to His Excellency President Museveni for giving me an opportunity that he has not given anybody else in Uganda to serve in the same portfolio for such a long period,’ Oryem said.

The veteran diplomat described his tenure as a rare opportunity to represent Uganda globally and engage with world leaders across continents. He said the role allowed him to promote and protect Uganda’s interests at the UN, African Union, EU, and through bilateral missions, adding that he had built strong international networks and enhanced the country’s image abroad.

Despite leaving Cabinet, Oryem said he remains ready to serve in any capacity, including diplomacy, consultancy, and other government assignments. He is also a trained lawyer.

On concerns from Northern Uganda about limited Cabinet representation despite growing NRM support, Oryem urged residents to remain patient.

‘I know that the attitude in Northern Uganda has changed tremendously in supporting the NRM. But my position is, they should be patient, and they should be tolerant,’ he said.

He added that Acholi should focus on lobbying for major infrastructure projects and poverty-reduction initiatives rather than concentrating solely on political appointments.

President Museveni’s reshuffle retained several ministers while bringing in new faces. Analysts see it as part of a broader reorganization ahead of the 2026-2031 political cycle.

From Acholi, Hillary Onek was reassigned to the Office of the Prime Minister as Minister for General Duties, while Norbert Mao retained Justice and Constitutional Affairs. Beatrice Atim Anywar kept her role as State Minister for Water and Environment, and Lillian Aber remained in the OPM handling Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees.

Reactions in Acholi have been mixed. Some leaders welcomed the appointments, while others said internal NRM divisions and regional balancing shaped the outcome.

Alex Okoya, LCII Chairperson for Labour Line Ward in Gulu City’s Laroo-Pece Division, praised the President for appointing what he called competent leaders. ‘I want to congratulate the president for dropping and leaving out those who have been a threat to us. Let them continue to be backbenchers, we shall wait for them at voting time and vote them out,’ Okoya said.

Arthur Owor, Director of Research and Operations at the Centre for Africa Research, said the reshuffle reflected Museveni’s attempt to balance regional interests with limited Cabinet slots.

‘Regardless of whether or not he had failed the election, to me he should have remained in that position. But the national cake is limited, and the President had to grapple with difficult decisions,’ Owor said.

He blamed divisions among Acholi leaders for weakening the region’s bargaining power, contrasting it with West Nile, which he said rallied collectively and benefited more.

‘We have failed to collectively work together or front our issues. There were already fractures – West Acholi, East Acholi, opposition versus NRM, and old versus new members,’ Owor said.

The reshuffle also saw Vice President Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, and First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports, retained in their positions.

In a dramatic turn of events within Uganda’s military top brass, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced on Thursday that all charges against Major General Don William Nabasa have been dropped.

The high-ranking general was released immediately following months of military detention.

The breakthrough reportedly came after a marathon, closed-door meeting between the two powerful military figures.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on May 28, Gen. Muhoozi-who is also the son of President Museveni-expressed a tone of relief and reconciliation, effectively reinstating one of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces’ (UPDF) most prominent commanders.

“I’m glad to announce after a long meeting with Maj. General Don Nabasa today I have decided to release him and drop all the charges he was facing,” Gen. Muhoozi posted. “I thank him for the good work he has done in our mighty military since he joined in 1998. God bless UPDF!”

While the exact nature of the allegations against Maj. Gen. Nabasa remains classified, his sudden legal jeopardy in March this year sent shockwaves through the country’s political and security establishment.

Nabasa is a highly decorated officer who previously commanded the elite Special Forces Command (SFC), the army unit responsible for presidential security and strategic special operations. He also commanded the Military Police and led Ugandan troops on critical peacekeeping missions abroad, including the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). Prior to his arrest, he was serving as the Joint Staff for Policy and Strategy.

The cracks in the military hierarchy became visible on March 26, when Maj. Gen. Nabasa and Brig. Gen. Johnson Namanya Abaho were arrested on orders of the CDF over alleged corruption-related offenses. The arrest order was implemented by the Deputy CDF and Chief Inspector of the Armed Forces, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding.

Following hours of intense interrogation at Mbuya, the officers were moved under heavy military convoy. They were eventually held in the quartermaster’s wing of the strict SFC Kasenyi detention facility on Entebbe Road. Brig. Gen. Namanya had only recently been recalled by Gen. Muhoozi from his role as Commissioner for Citizenship and Passport Management in the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The arrests were part of a wider anti-corruption sweeping operation orchestrated by the new CDF. Alongside the detentions, Gen. Muhoozi sacked the Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Brig. Abdul Rugumayo, sending him to Mbuya headquarters awaiting redeployment. Brig. Rugumayo was replaced by Brig. Gen. Oscar Munanura, the former head of Counter-Intelligence.

Since assuming the role of CDF, Gen. Muhoozi has overseen aggressive structural changes meant to enforce internal accountability within the military hierarchy. However, insiders note that Nabasa’s nearly three-decade journey since joining the army in 1998 makes him part of the bedrock of the UPDF.

By publicly thanking Nabasa for his 28 years of service, Gen. Muhoozi has signaled that institutional loyalty and past sacrifices still carry immense weight, choosing solidarity over a prolonged legal battle that risked fracturing the military’s top tier.

The promise by the new leadership of the legislative branch of government to press the reset button after the 12th Parliament received the baton from the 11th, has been welcomed with a collective sigh. Under the past leadership, the House hit rock bottom after not only doing the bidding of the Executive but also having less skin in the accountability game. With a new page turned, Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, the new House Speaker, and his deputy Thomas Tayebwa, have vowed to make amends.

We commend the new House leadership for not showcasing a reluctance to admit to mistakes that may have contributed to a dire need of an investment of trust. The acknowledgment is a crowd-pleaser that will play well to a wide audience. But only in the short term. If, eventually, hype is not met with substance, the public will continue to be deeply at odds with the Legislature. Far from being prophets of doom and gloom, we invite the new House leadership to pore over why such apocalyptic outlooks continue to persist in their existence. Mr Oboth-Oboth’s promises of better housekeeping and procedural reforms in the 12th Parliament arouse fears and fascination in the same way. To put it in the simplest of ways, there’s deep mistrust. Some of it is conscious, some subliminal, but it is there.

Promises to make the House more people-centred and submissions within its precincts qualitative have been made before, only for a dense downpour of the opposite to be delivered. So, again, we are not quick to dismiss those that have not seen encouraging signals. Yet. We are also mindful of the fact that the process that culminated in Mr Oboth-Oboth and Mr Tayebwa assuming the House leadership reins was one that shows how Mr Museveni’s presidency seems grimly determined to subvert the time-honoured doctrine of separation of powers.

It should not recede from the collective memory of Ugandans that well before decision-making processes in the ruling NRM party kicked in, Mr Oboth-Oboth and Mr Tayebwa were both cherry-picked for the leadership roles that eventually dropped in their laps. An attendant question of who the pair is beholden to does suffice. It is immediately obvious that both the House Speaker and his deputy have come to their leadership not through swaggering certainty, but by learning to follow what the presidency deems fit. Ditto the lawmakers that gave both Mr Oboth-Oboth and Mr Tayebwa an overwhelming mandate on Monday.

It, therefore, invariably follows that the country should collectively ask one pertinent question: Can the House leadership and its leaders bite the hand that not only makes but also feeds them? The unhesitating answer to this question, we reckon, does not inspire confidence. More than anything, the answer should be the subject of perpetual fascination and disbelief because it illuminates the dangerous path the country is charting. As such, it is-to borrow a common parlance-not yet Uhuru.

Rather than expect Mr Oboth-Oboth to wave a magic wand, Ugandans should make it their preoccupation to ensure those in the top echelons of the country’s leadership get in the habit of building institutions. The institutional collapse that confronts the country should continue to be condemned in the strongest possible terms. It is for this reason that we invite all well-meaning Ugandans not to rest on their laurels. It is not yet Uhuru.

The Archbishop of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, says the Church is consulting government and health officials on holding a ‘scientific’ and largely virtual Uganda Martyrs Day celebration at Namugongo amid ongoing Ebola concerns.

Speaking Wednesday during an inspection of renovation works at the Anglican shrine, Kaziimba said the Church is considering a limited physical gathering that would be broadcast live to Christians nationwide.

‘June 3 remains a public holiday dedicated to worship, and worship itself has never been stopped,’ he said. ‘We are consulting so that there is clear guidance, but Christians should worship wherever they are.’

Discussions with authorities are ongoing on whether a small, controlled gathering can be allowed under strict health measures.

‘We can have a few people here, including the choir and media teams, and then take the message of the martyrs to homes across the country using digital platforms,’ the Archbishop explained.

He stressed that the Church is taking the Ebola threat seriously. ‘When they talk about Ebola, which kills people, we must listen. We must care for ourselves and for others,’ Kaziimba said.

UCU offers to host next full celebrations

Meanwhile, Uganda Christian University has formally requested to organize the next full Martyrs Day celebrations after this year’s disruptions.

Dr. John Kitayimbwa, speaking for the organizing committee, said UCU wants to complete what he called an ‘unfinished mission.’ Despite the uncertainties, he noted, the university has gained experience and strengthened its planning systems.

Archbishop Kaziimba backed the request and directed UCU to continue preparations for next year. Several planned activities, including conferences for women, youth, and children, were interrupted before they could take place.

The Archbishop also praised the unity shown by the organizing team, tying it to the legacy of the martyrs. ‘They died together here. Some were even tied together. That is unity, and we must continue promoting that unity,’ he said.

Shrine gets facelift ahead of June 3

During the visit, UCU officials showcased major renovations at the shrine focused on safety and security, beautification, and water and sanitation.

Works included repairing and reconstructing the perimeter wall, improving drainage, creating new walkways, and enhancing security with the Uganda Police. The site has been landscaped, with trees trimmed, bushes cleared, buildings renovated, and road access improved.

A new solar-powered borehole was installed to ensure reliable water during pilgrimages, addressing long-standing shortages. Sanitation facilities were also upgraded with modern toilets, separate showers for overnight pilgrims, and a new sanitation block.

UCU Vice Chancellor Aaron Mushengyezi called for a permanent maintenance fund for Namugongo under the House of Bishops. ‘We improve the place every year, then another organizing team comes and starts afresh. There should be a sustainable maintenance arrangement,’ he said.

The long-term goal, he added, is to transform Namugongo into a world-class pilgrimage centre offering pilgrims a ‘truly transformational spiritual experience.’

For many Ugandans who watched Maurice Ochol on television for years, journalism seemed as the career he was destined for forever. The newsroom had become part of his identity. From breaking news assignments to long production days and storytelling on camera, he spent years building a respected career in Uganda’s media industry. But behind the television screens was a man thinking about growth, family, and the possibility of a completely different future. The anchor’s desk, once a symbol of achievement, had slowly begun to feel like a comfort zone. And comfort, Ochol realised, is often the enemy of growth.

Today, years after leaving Uganda, the former journalist is living a life few people would have imagined for him. He now serves in the United States Navy; a transition that marked one of the biggest changes of his life after spending nearly a decade in Ugandan media. It is a journey from the studio spotlight to military discipline, from storytelling to service, and from local fame to purposeful obscurity in a foreign land.

Who Ochol is today

Still deeply connected to his roots, Ochol describes himself first as a devoted father, a man of faith, and someone passionate about personal growth. These are not idle labels. They are the scaffolding upon which he has built a new life thousands of miles from home.

‘I value living with purpose, integrity, and gratitude,’ he says. ‘I am naturally curious and always eager to learn new things and embrace new challenges.’

That curiosity, he admits, is what saved him from stagnation. While colleagues saw a successful television career, Ochol saw a loop. The same routines, the same stories, the same newsroom politics. He began asking himself a question that would not go away: Is this all there is?

Early days in Ugandan media

Ochol’s media journey began in 2007 while he was still a student at UMCAT. At the time, he volunteered at UBC Radio, slowly learning the ropes of broadcasting and newsroom life. There was no glamour in those early days, just the hum of studio equipment, the smell of old newsprint, and the quiet determination of a young man who knew he wanted more. Like many young people joining the media, he started small, taking every opportunity to gain experience. He later joined NBS TV between 2008 and 2009 as a reporter before eventually moving to NTV Uganda around 2009, where he built most of his career.

For close to a decade, he immersed himself in reporting, storytelling, and television production, becoming part of one of Uganda’s leading media houses during an era when television journalism was rapidly growing. But even while succeeding professionally, another thought kept growing in his mind. After years in the same environment, he felt he needed a new challenge beyond broadcasting.

The weight of a decision

Leaving a stable career is never easy, especially in a country where opportunities are scarce and unemployment among young people remains high. Ochol understood the risks. He knew that walking away from NTV meant walking away from visibility, influence, and a steady paycheck. Yet he also understood a quieter truth staying would cost him something harder to measure.

‘At some point, I felt I needed to challenge myself beyond the routine I had become used to in media,’ he explains.

In 2018, he made the life-changing decision to relocate to the United States. The move, however, was never simply about chasing ‘greener pastures.’ He explains that education, personal growth, and broader professional opportunities all influenced his decision. Friends who had relocated earlier also encouraged him to consider life abroad.

A family that moved together

Unlike many people who move abroad alone first before bringing their families later, he wanted to relocate together with his family from the beginning. That choice added layers of complexity to an already difficult process. Visas, housing, schools, healthcare, all had to be arranged for four people instead of one.

‘At the time, we had a two-year-old child, so stability and proper planning were very important to us,’ he says.

Fortunately, the United States was not entirely unfamiliar to him. Since 2013, he had been travelling to America almost every year, mainly for UNAA conventions and United Nations summits in New York City. Those trips helped him understand the culture and systems before eventually relocating permanently. Because of those experiences, combined with support from friends already living in the US, settling into American life became slightly easier than expected. Still, adapting to a new country came with challenges that many people rarely talk about openly.

The invisible struggles of immigration

One of his earliest frustrations involved something many immigrants struggle with; obtaining a driver’s licence.

‘I failed the behind-the-wheel driving test twice before eventually passing,’ he says. ‘It may sound simple, but adjusting to a completely different driving system was difficult initially.’

Rather than discouraging him, the experience taught him patience and resilience. At the same time, life at home was becoming even more demanding. Shortly after relocating, his wife gave birth, making the family’s first year in America particularly challenging.

Back in Uganda, family support systems and domestic help were easier to access. Grandparents, aunts, and hired help were never far away. In the United States, however, they had to adapt to doing almost everything themselves.

‘We did not have the kind of domestic support we were used to back home,’ he says. ‘No maid, no close relatives nearby. We had to rely heavily on friends while adjusting to parenting and everyday life in a new environment.’

Despite the pressure, he believes those struggles ultimately strengthened the family and taught them independence. They learned to cook, clean, budget, and parent without a safety net. That, he says, is the hidden gift of immigration: it forces you to become resourceful.

From Apple to the Navy

Professionally, he continued doing correspondent work after relocating, handling special assignments and media-related projects whenever needed. He had earlier worked at Apple under Apple TV before joining the military.

In August 2024, he officially enlisted in the United States Navy. For many people who knew him as a journalist, the decision came as a surprise, but to him, it was a carefully considered transition shaped by reflection, discipline, and the desire to continue growing in a new environment.

‘It marked a completely new chapter in my professional life,’ he says.

Life in the aviation sector

Today, his role in the Navy is within the aviation sector, where he supports aircraft maintenance coordination, administrative documentation, and aviation-related photography. It is a world away from television studios and press conferences. Instead of microphones, he handles technical manuals. Instead of interviewees, he works alongside pilots and mechanics. The transition from media to military life, however, was not easy. He admits the adjustment came with intense learning experiences and moments of fear. Among the biggest challenges were firearms training exercises, shipboard operations, emergency response drills, and adapting to military discipline and structure.

‘Things like general quarters, damage control drills, and standing watch require focus and composure,’ he explains.

He says one of the hardest realities of military life is the long periods away from family, especially during deployments and training. The transition from media to military life, however, was not easy. He admits the adjustment came with intense learning experiences and moments of fear. Among the biggest challenges were firearms training exercises, shipboard operations, emergency response drills, and adapting to military discipline and structure.

Things such as general quarters, damage control drills, and standing watch require focus and composure.

Staying connected to Uganda

Even after building a new life in America, Uganda remains deeply important to him. He regularly returns home whenever possible and intentionally ensures his children remain connected to their Ugandan identity and culture.

‘Home will always remain an important part of my life,’ he says.

Advice for those dreaming of moving abroad

Asked what advice he would give Ugandans dreaming of moving abroad, he speaks carefully and honestly.

‘The US offers opportunities, but people must come prepared mentally and legally,’ he says. ‘Life there is highly structured and independent. You have to be ready to work hard and adapt.’

He also warns against unrealistic expectations: ‘It is not an automatic upgrade. Success comes through discipline, consistency and patience.’

It gives me great pleasure, as your voter, to congratulate you on this great achievement. Your ascension to Parliament to negotiate for my piece of the coveted national cake is no small feat. It goes without saying that I voted for you believing that you are the most equipped to bridge the gap between me and the government of Uganda. At least to you, I am not just a nameless statistic. I am a real person of flesh and blood, with needs, just as you witnessed while you were canvassing for votes in our village.

Do you remember how we struggled to lift your Vitz from the mud when a downpour found us on that remote road? It is fortunate that a Vitz is quite portable and can be lifted by a few strong men. I believe that with the great plans the government has concerning your transportation; new cars, fuel allowances, and mileage, you may never again experience such inconvenience. But for me, things are likely to get worse with the planned removal of old taxis from the roads, especially since it seems impossible for the government to ever run a public transport company again.

So, may I kindly ask that taxes on public service vehicles be lowered? That way, we can have better taxis on our roads and affordable fares. A healthy transport sector is the backbone of any economy, and we the common people feel every bump on that road.

I pray that I never have to call you to contribute to my own or my family’s medical expenses. But you know, these things are bound to happen. Illness does not check your bank balance before arriving. It is not that most of us, your voters, love to bother you incessantly with personal issues. Most of us hate begging because it humiliates us. But sometimes, you are our only recourse after the government hospital has run out of paracetamol and the private clinic demands money we do not have.

You know, in my language we have a proverb: ‘Kyokufa ohemuka.’ Literally translated: in the face of death, you would rather humiliate yourself. So, I am setting aside my pride to write this letter.

Therefore, when you debate in Parliament, please do not concentrate only on Bills that strengthen your position in power such as the supplementary budgets for foreign trips, sitting allowances, and the lavish renovation of offices. Remember to talk about healthcare in our constituency. It is a real problem, one that could cause you to change your telephone number when the calls for help become too many and something that might create difficulties in the next election.

I know that education, healthcare, transportation and employment are not your direct responsibilities alone. The Constitution makes that clear. But as our spokesperson and representative, you have not only a speaking role but a practical role to play. There are many gaps and loopholes that you can help plug so that people can learn to help themselves instead of waiting forever for the government to rescue them.

So, whenever two or three of us are gathered, at a funeral, a wedding, or simply under a mango tree on a Sunday afternoon, please come and be in our midst. You may bring a token of support, or you may not. But our deepest desire is that you come with knowledge and information that we can use to better ourselves. Topics on personal hygiene, family planning, mental healthcare, and self-employment will cement your name in our hearts more than jerrycans of waragi handed out during campaigns.

Those gifts are soon forgotten. But knowledge changes a family for generations. Though I could not accompany you to the swearing-in ceremony, I was proud to see you take that oath in the 12th Parliament.

May you always remember the mud from which your Vitz was lifted. May you remember the faces of those who pushed it. And may you never become too important to listen.

Yours sincerely,

Your faithful voter

The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) has expressed dissatisfaction with the positions they secured in the new Cabinet, arguing that the ministerial posts allotted to them appear to be a Trojan horse intended to weaken their civic organisation.

PLU said their members and allies got at least 17 ministerial posts in the 83-member Cabinet, an increase from the eight they held in the previous government.

Mr David Kabanda, the Secretary General of PLU, noted that although the number of posts had risen, their key figures were dispatched to ministries where they would be ‘dead in the water.’

‘We are unhappy as PLU. Our members were largely demoted or literally put on Katebe,’ Mr Kabanda said yesterday in an interview.

PLU, a civic organisation led by the First Son and Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has been pushing for his succession to President Museveni.

His supporters have fielded several political candidates under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) banner, hoping to build momentum.

Mr Kabanda pointed to the redeployment of former Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, now Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, and Mr Haruna Kasolo, previously State Minister of Micro Finance.

He stressed that both ministers had been instrumental in financing and mobilisation, yet were now fish out of water in ministries where they could hardly advance the PLU cause.

Mr Kabanda reiterated that he had no appetite for a ministerial post, having already informed Gen Kainerugaba in writing.

‘I wrote to him that I wasn’t interested in a ministerial position because I was holding the post of General Secretary in PLU. I even wrote to him about it,’ Mr Kabanda said.

Earlier, Gen Kainerugaba had promised Mr Kabanda a ministerial role via his social media account. Gen Kainerugaba’s posts on X, formerly Twitter, yesterday mirrored Mr Kabanda’s dissatisfaction.

He said they aren’t interested in positions.

‘I refused to join Parliament so that I would not take more money from the people of Uganda. I have dedicated all my allowances as CDF to the people of my country. All those who are interested in jobs and positions have not understood the gospel of PLU,’ he said.

Gen Kainerugaba also sought to reassure Mr Kabanda in a series of posts.

‘My young brother Hon Kabanda is the General Secretary of the Patriotic League of Uganda, a much more important position than being a Cabinet minister. His job is to organise and mobilise the millions of young people in our country. Kabanda will get a ministerial job when [NRM Secretary General Richard] Todwong gets one,’ he posted on X yesterday.

Despite his assurances, some individuals Gen Kainerugaba had promised would not receive posts were appointed, while others he had pledged to include in Cabinet were left out.

These included Dr Chris Baryomunsi and Maj Gen Kahinda Otafiire, who returned to Cabinet. Meanwhile, Mr Henry Okello Oryem, whom Gen Muhoozi had promised a full ministerial post in Foreign Affairs, was dropped.

Mr Adonia Ayebare, who was promised a junior role, was instead elevated to full Foreign Affairs Minister.

The new Cabinet list features PLU members such as Mr Jonard Asiimwe (Science, Technology and Innovation), Mr Frank Tumwebaze (Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries), Mr Kiryowa Kiwanuka (Defence and Veterans Affairs), Mr Adonia Ayebare (Foreign Affairs), Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero (ICT and National Guidance), Mr Balaam Barugahara (Local Government), and Ms Lillian Aber (Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees).

Other PLU appointees include Ms Desire Muhooza (State Minister for Agriculture), Ms Grace Akifeza Ngabirano (State Minister for Defence), Mr Peter Ogwang (State Minister for Sports), Ms Phiona Nyamutoro (State Minister for Minerals), Ms Shartsi Kutesa Musherure (State Minister for Micro-Finance), Mr Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo (State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Regional Affairs), Dr Charles Ayume (State Minister for Primary Health Care), Mr Tom Aza (State Minister for Trade), Dr Lawrence Muganga (State Minister for Internal Affairs), and Ms Mercy Faith Lakisa (State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs).

Mr Kabanda claimed the Cabinet bore the fingerprints of Gen Caleb Akandwanaho, alias Salim Saleh. ‘To me, we are going the Cuba way. It is a Gen Salim Saleh cabinet,’ he said.

We were unable to reach Gen Saleh by press time for a comment. Mr Kabanda drew parallels with Cuba, where Fidel Castro was succeeded by his brother Raúl Castro, who later stepped down.

In Uganda, Gen Kainerugaba and PLU paused their mobilisation for his presidential bid after Mr Museveni appointed him Commander of the Defence Forces two years ago.

At the handover, Gen Saleh hinted at Gen Kainerugaba’s political ambitions, saying he had ‘jumped out of the bag,’ and bringing him back into the army was meant to keep him under wraps.

For nearly a quarter century, Naome Kabasharira and Beatrice Rwakimari have defined Ntungamo politics. Fierce rivals since 2001, they will now sit together in the 12th Parliament, representing Rushenyi and Ruhaama counties respectively.

The two women spent years swapping the Ntungamo District Woman MP seat. This time, both won directly elected constituency seats, with Viola Namanya taking the Woman MP slot.

Kabasharira shifted the race in 2021 when she challenged former Deputy Attorney General Mwesigwa Rukutana in Rushenyi County and defeated him. The contest was bitter, marked by allegations of threats against voters.

‘The role of a leader is not to be a man or a woman, it’s to serve the people diligently, unite them, lobby and provide services they need best,’ Kabasharira said. ‘Yes, there are special interest group seats based on affirmative action, but all we look for in leadership is what they can offer.’

She said her victory came from a united demand for change. ‘When I stood against Rukutana, with a united force of Rushenyi people who felt a gap in services, we defeated him. It was not because I was a woman and he was a man. He was not a bad man, but people wanted change,’ she said. ‘In an election, no one looks at you as a man or woman. The special attention is on service delivery.’

Kabasharira first entered Parliament in 1993 through the electoral college as Ntungamo’s first Woman MP in the National Resistance Council. She retained the seat in 1996 when adult suffrage was introduced. Alongside Winnie Byanyima, Miria Matembe, Beatrice Byenkya, and the late Cecilia Ogwal, she became one of the most visible Woman MPs of her era.

Her profile rose further in 1997 when she led an anti-corruption crusade with Byanyima to censure Ministers Gen. Jim Muhwezi and Sam Kutesa.

But 2001 changed the trajectory. As she turned up for nomination, a petition at the Ntungamo Electoral Commission blocked her, citing missing academic credentials. Her Makerere University Social Sciences degree was recalled, forcing her to start over. Rwakimari was behind the disqualification.

Kellen Baguma, who was present that day, calls it a turning point. ‘The whole district had gathered. Everyone was excited. Kabasharira had become a strong national figure and no one could defeat her in an election. Over 300 vehicles had followed her to the nomination. When we reached, the Electoral Commission said they couldn’t nominate her, that she had fake papers,’ Baguma recalled. ‘Anyone who participated that day will never like Rwakimari, at least for political reasons.’

The 2001 race launched a rivalry that split both the two women and their voters. They faced off again in 2006, and Rwakimari won. Kabasharira returned to defeat her in 2011, only to lose in 2016. In 2021, Kabasharira took Rushenyi against Rukutana, while Rwakimari lost the Woman MP seat to Joselyn Bata Kamateneti.

‘I have not contested with someone who was as complicated as Ms Kabasharira,’ Rwakimari said after the 2021 loss. ‘She knows politics and she is so loved. I actually can only pray for those she contests with. Through our contests, we have only been political rivals. I can’t say we are enemies. We still greet each other and I think we are friends.’

Journalist Rwambuka Mugisha, who has covered their contests since 1993, says voters struggled to choose between them. ‘Each one has their exception. They are all so good. Rwakimari was good at lobbying for electricity and her NGO, ARISE, brought change in communities including the fight against HIV. Whereas Ms Kabasharira prioritized household income. She would bring seeds and seedlings to communities,’ he said.

Political lines deepened the split. Kabasharira was close to former District Chairperson John Wycliffe Karazarwe, while Rwakimari aligned with his opponents. Even with strong ground support, Kabasharira often faced legal and procedural hurdles. In 2011, Rwakimari petitioned the Electoral Commission to cancel her nomination over Primary Leaving Examination qualifications. The High Court dismissed the case.

Now both women say the rivalry is in the past, and Ntungamo stands to gain. ‘In all our contests, while people would say it was rivalry, we had the interests of Ntungamo at heart,’ Rwakimari said. ‘We still have these interests. That’s the reason we come to offer ourselves for leadership again. We would retire and advise, but we think we can make a bigger contribution. I am glad we shall be in this Parliament together.’

She argued that their experience across the district gives them reach beyond their constituencies. ‘Our jurisdiction will be constituencies, but our experience shall be Ntungamo, and it’s the people who benefit,’ she said.

Voters and analysts say the new arrangement offers a chance to compare leadership styles directly. ‘As a voter and someone who has supported the parties, I am waiting to see how they deliver the promises,’ said political analyst Edward Natamba. ‘We have a chance to see them all work at the same time and see who is better. We want to see among them who will work better.’

Baguma sees it as a historic moment. ‘No one would think this will ever happen. God has made us live long enough to see them seated in the same house and all working for Ntungamo. At the end of everything, we shall be able to weigh who has done better, and lobbied enough for their constituency.’

Justus Karuhanga, who backed Kabasharira in Rushenyi, said her approach has always been collective. ‘She understands the district. Her vision has become our shared vision. She never works or claims to work as an individual. I think that is even why she is the most fought MP. Whatever she does, we do it together as Rushenyi.’

Kamateneti, the outgoing Woman MP, said their return together closes a chapter. ‘When I came in, I filled the gap of voters seeking to end the rivalry between two individuals. They thought they were overstaying, but also had personal vendetta. People voted me to end that. I think as they come to Parliament together, the beneficiary is Ntungamo and no one looks at hurting the other,’ she said.

Steven Magume Rwabukwire argued that their move to constituency seats signals a shift for affirmative action seats. ‘This should show everyone in the country that the two women have reached a point where they no longer should be looked at as women but equals to society. Many women fear contesting for directly elected constituencies. I think someone should never contest for the Woman MP seat for more than two terms.’

Both women were born in Ntungamo but married outside the district. Rwakimari is married to Dr. John Rwakimari of Mparo in Rukiga. Kabasharira was married to the late Maj. John Bashaija Kazoora of Kashari in Mbarara.

Kabasharira is the only MP from Ntungamo in the 11th Parliament to return to the 12th. Her colleagues Benjamin Kamukama, Henry Nkwasibwe Zinkuratire, Yona Musinguzi Bikwasizehi, Michael Timuzigu Kamugisha, and Kamateneti all lost their seats, while Timuzigu did not seek re-election.