The National Unity Platform (NUP) and their Presidential Candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu aka Bobi Wine has used the Ugandan Flag as a message of change and sign of a new Uganda. The National Flag, which are for every citizen and all Ugandans. That’s so clever that the state is now resorting to “ban it” or call it “unauthorized usage” and use the National Flag and Armorial Ensigns Act, which is a colonial law that has been consolidated and amended by the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
We know they will use two parts of the law and especially this part:
“4. Unauthorised use of the national flag or armorial ensigns
(1) No person shall, without the authority of the Minister, use or permit to be used in connection with any business, trade, calling or profession the national flag or the armorial ensigns, or a flag or device so nearly resembling them as to be calculated to deceive, in a manner calculated to lead to the belief that he or she is duly authorised to use the national flag or armorial ensigns, as the case may be, in that connection.
(2) Any person who contravenes this section commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding one thousand shillings or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or to both such fine and imprisonment” (National Flag and Armorial Ensigns Act, Chapter 254).
What is funny in all of this is that the NRM always speaks of patriotism and the right line. The NRM and the Museveni is pointing to some dogmas and ideals of which the nation can be become prosperous. However, if they are targeting the flag, well, what else do you got?
They went after the “military attire” already and revised the UPDF Act in such a manner, which makes certain shoes, berets and other fatigue illegal. All because the NUP has used and are known for it. Will they go this far with the flag too?
If the state targets the usage and the visibility of the flag even further, does the state and the NRM want it to become a sign of Resistance?
Will the state want the use of the flag to be symbol of rebellion and a sign of defiance of the state? Because that’s where the authorities, law enforcement and all the stakeholders are heading. As they are fear-mongering and wanting it to be limited. This will cause dismay and be an issue on plenty of days of the year. Not to talk about selling merchandize at sporting events or even to tourists. That’s where these things are prevalent and even good business. Which is supposed to boost the moral and the patriotic spirit of the citizens. Alas, what does the authorities wants and what gives?
Will the state next ensure the people are guided on their duties as citizens and if they don’t comply become criminals? Because every step they are making, every act becomes a de-facto criminal act or deemed unfit for society. Is that what the NRM wants and is this the liberty they fought for in the bush?
Waving a flag, wearing a flag and carrying it shouldn’t be that deep. Neither should the state or the state officials lecture so highly and mighty about it. The national symbol and sign of the Republic should be worn with pride and shown at gathering without any fuzz or issue. Alas, they are just doing it, because they don’t like what it can represent and be perceived. Seriously, this is a fault-line and they cannot manage their calm. That’s why they act like this and fear-monger about it.
This is a trap and the state fell for it. They have really missed the plot and this will only get ugly, if they do this one dirty and tries to penalize anyone who dares to challenge them. As it just proves what sort of state it is and who are in power. That sentiment cannot be underestimated and everyone can follow just that. Peace.
MinBane 