Al Jazeera’s interview undress Mzee’s so-called Democracy!

Again, President Yoweri Katuga Museveni tried use the trick of democracy, as the ballots and the Electoral Commission, didn’t cook the numbers like a drunk cafeteria staffer and tried to sell it Michelin Star Restaurant. Mr. President has try to sell it other numb-sculls than me, but I am not his target audience.

Let me address one thing Al-Jazeera did wrong, they called him a five time term President, as off his elections. Certainly, the Media House are forgiven for giving way to the propaganda arm of the Movement and their rewriting of history. But there is decade when he wasn’t elected and postponed elections. Sort of the same trick President Joseph Kabila tries to pull of in Democratic Republic of Congo. Well, that is another story for another day. What Al-Jazeera does is to erase the years between 1986 to 1996. Since he wasn’t elected nor had an election, as the rebel and two time General going in and getting rid of the ones on the throne. That is easy to forget as the time past and most of his citizens are born since the 1990s.

Well, before more comments. Look at this interview and the comments of the long-term dictator and ruler of the Republic of Uganda.

Outtake of the Interview:

Museveni: Have you heard of something called democracy? Democracy means you elect the people you like. We had elections about one year ago and my party won 62 percent of the vote. That does not show that the people of Uganda are fed up of our party because they have voted for us five times.

Al Jazeera: According to some reports, you have demanded to be given the right to choose the next leader of Uganda. You were unsuccessful.

Museveni: No. I cannot demand that. The people are there. The people have been electing me, in spite of Al Jazeera.

Al Jazeera: Are you going to run for another term?

Museveni: We follow our Constitution.

Al Jazeera: There are reports that you are about to change the Constitution so that you can run for another term. Is that going to happen?

Museveni: I cannot change the Constitution because I do not have that power.

Al Jazeera: Reports also say that you are now preparing your own son, who is now highly elevated in the army and he’s your special adviser on certain issues. Your wife is also a minister – she sits next to you on the cabinet. Reports are you are preparing one of the two to become the next president of Uganda. What do you say to this?

Museveni: Why should I prepare them? The people of Uganda will choose the one they want.

Al Jazeera: People in your family are very close to you right now, closer than anybody else. There are reports that you are focusing on your own relatives and this is nepotism – giving them higher seats in the government. Isn’t that nepotism, Mr President?

Museveni: That’s not nepotism. The few members of my family that are involved, I involve on their own merit. My wife, against my advice, stood for election and had the biggest majority in the whole country – because the population appreciate what I have done(Talk to Al Jazeera, 2017).

I wonder if President Museveni feels that as a sole candidate and NRM Flag-Bearer for three decades, that he knows there hasn’t been any suggestion of other people running the country. Why are Dr. Kizza Besigye, Dr. Olara Otunnu, Dr. Paul Ssemogerere and Amama Mbabazi never became Presidents after you? Certainly one of them could have been legitimate presidents and de facto leaders as well. Not only you Mr. President of a so-called democracy? But hey, you took the grip of the nation by the gun and never let-go!

He speaks about electing him, if he means he puts up elections and than makes sure rigging it and using the military to spread fear in the villages; than he would be closer to the actual fact. The time when he was popular have gone, as the pictures only today in the villages when Besigye rode around the whole village turned-up to the car of the opposition leader. Something that wouldn’t occur on the watch of the President, as people more fear him and the security forces around him.

That President Museveni speaks of respecting the constitution, he has already pigeon-hold it to fit the paradigm of longevity of himself. If someone we’re up to change the age-limit on the Presidency, it wouldn’t be out of his character to drop of a few suits to the MP’s and have a summit at Kyankwanzi where the subject came and the Movement would celebrate in the progress the party has made. So the use of democracy and constitution is just fronts to look uptight, when the reality is much more bleak.

Let’s be clear if the Ugandans really could choose, it wouldn’t be you, you are already old milk that is not drinkable. The fatigue and disguise of so-called democracy doesn’t work anymore, the gig is up Mr. President. The evidence is right there, on the kangaroo court, the post-election violence and the disappearance of governance from the Central Governance. It is all circled around you and not the institutions of the government. If so there wouldn’t be given food to district who doesn’t need so and the districts getting who needs so are not getting enough. Just as the proof of the food relief in Lira, Abletong and Dokolo this weekend.

The first lady and Minister for Karamoja says she will not be seeking re-election as MP for Ruhama County in the 2016 elections. In a statement to her constituents, Mrs. Museveni said she had reached the decision after a lot of thinking and prayer. She asked that her constituents to understand her and accept her message within grace” (NTV Uganda, 22. May 2015).

So how Mrs. Janet Museveni is on merit and was elected to her role as Minister in his cabinet, is not only violation of her place, but he directly lied to Al-Jazeera, but calling Uganda a Democracy and calling himself elected by the people is a forgery. President Museveni knows it and the world does to. The rigging and the pre-ticked ballots is known by the ones googling away. The history on how he changed the constitution in the past is there too. Not like it is not well known. The ignorant are the ones who doesn’t know.

That President Museveni uses the Flying Squad or Special Forces Command to kill and get of rid of dissidents isn’t a rumor or a mirage, it is mere fact of sadness of overstepping powers. As the ones with detaining dissidents and opposition voices like Stella Nyanzi, but also others. Therefore, keep in mind that Uganda isn’t democratic. That President Museveni is on his 7th Term, not on his 5th that is National Resistance Movement rewriting of history and the world has swallowed it! Peace.

Reference:

Talk to Al Jazeera – ‘Yoweri Museveni: A five times-elected dictator?’ (29.04.2017) link:http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/talktojazeera/2017/04/yoweri-museveni-times-elected-dictator-170429102326955.html

Up-North: 5,400kgs rice supposed to feed 879,000 people!

This morning, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni commissioned Dokolo water supply system. (National Water and Sewerage Corporation – NWSC) – 8th March 2017

I don’t know about you but this story should horrify you, as the concern of the citizens is clearly lacking, as their food insecurity is not well taken care off. The Ugandan Government clearly has maladministration or lacking resources, or only funds to Presidential Handshakes and the Presidential Jet. Because the districts of Lira, Dokolo and Alebtong isn’t getting their needs fulfilled. Just take a look!

Government has delivered 5,400kgs of rice as relief for vulnerable communities faced with food shortage in Lango sub region” (…) “The relief supplies were delivered to Lira, Dokolo and Alebtong districts on Thursday evening. Each district will receive 1,800 kilograms of rice in the distribution. Lira district secretary for production Anthony Ojuka says the supplies will be distributed to extremely vulnerable families comprising of widows, persons living with HIV/Aids and the elderly, among others” (URN, 2017).

To put the whole food delivery and relief supplies into context!

Lira district: The Water Supply Atlas claims in Lira District that it lives about 442,128 people there (Water Uganda, 2017). The Water Supply Atlas claims in Dokolo District it lives about 196,591 people in the district (Water Uganda, 2017). The same Water Supply Atlas claims in Abletong District to be living there about 241,596 people (Water Uganda, 2017). A rough estimate would say that in these three district there are living about 879,000 people!!!

Out of the rice donated, let’s do some math:

Out of the 5,400kgs supposed to be divided on 879,000 people is equal to 0,00614kg per person. So it means measly 0,006kg rice each. That is not even a handful a piece. People are already struggling to eat and the sum of food is insane. If they would deliver anything serious, it should be tons upon tons.

Each district we’re getting 1,800kgs rice is really depressing, especially thinking of the amount of people living there. Just think about it 1,800kgs rice to be shared in Lira district on 442 thousand people, 1800kgs to the amound of 196 thousand people in Dokolo district, 1800kgs shared on 241 thousand people in Abletong district!

There is something seriously wrong with the math-squad of the NRM and their willing people to deliver this sort of relief. Therefore, the first relief to Lira district we’re more sincere: “On March 31, Lira received 25 tonnes of food supplies which was distributed to those in dire need of food” (URN, 2017). That is something fruitful and profound from the government. Still, a month ago, but proves some willingness to make the people survive. Since in Lira District there are 442,128 people and seriously 1,800kgs rice cannot be sustainable, that is measly meals for kingpins of the NRM leadership in Lira town, but not for the whole district even. The same can be said abot the Dokolo District and the Abletong distict!

This is a meager attempt of food relief, if they want to serious with the 879,000 living in this area, they better come with tons of rice and food supplies, that would last and would give more than a handful to chosen few. The NRM cannot be proud of this attempt of needed relief here. Better man-up and ask for State of Emergency, as the NRM cannot have enough funds or manpower to relieve the district in dire need food. Peace.

Reference:

URN – ‘Govt delivers 5400 Kgs of relief food to Lango sub-region’ (29.04.2017) link:http://observer.ug/news/headlines/52605-govt-delivers-5400-kgs-of-relief-food-to-lango-sub-region.html

Uganda Travel Guide – ‘ Lira District’ link: http://www.ugandatravelguide.com/lira-district.html

Water Uganda – ‘Dokolo District’ (28.04.2017) link: http://www.wateruganda.com/index.php/reports/district/31

Water Uganda – ‘Abletong District’ (28.04.2017) link: http://www.wateruganda.com/index.php/reports/district/108

Water Uganda – ‘Lira District’ (28.04.2017) link: http://www.wateruganda.com/index.php/reports/district/45

Szlavik represents a Shady Company of Men: Polishing the image of Nkurunziza and Museveni!

Joseph Szlavik and his lobby firm in Washington D.C. are using his close-connected network in the Senate and the House, to trade secrets and interference of knowledge from not so favorable sources. The Scribe Strategies and Advisors are have certainly no scruples in their dealings. As the vast funding from Republic’s and their leadership. Proves that he can bought by anyone who opens their check-book. There is no story he cannot open and abuse, to make sure that his company earns fortunes.

Therefore, be aware that certain connected journalists has been touched by this lobbyist like the Sioban O’Grady, who has had interviews interconnected on several occasions during the last year. As well as Kevin Kelley in Daily Nation, who has been used as tools for the agenda of the Lobbying firm.

Promotes the cause of CNDD-FDD:

This lobbying company has a long history in Burundi, as they have wanted to retain the company as far back on 12 December 2005, when Minister of External Relations and International Cooperation Antoinette Batungbwira wrote a credible praise and wanted to extend their work together.

The government of Burundi, had the funds and the ability to push their agenda in Washington D.C. during the 2015-2016 as their noble lobbyist Joseph Szlavik, signed his earnings to the proper American authorities. On 10th November 2015, the CNDD-FDD paid the lobbyist $ 59,980.00, as he was also paid on the 5th February 2016 $ 60,000.00 and on 25th April 2016 $ 92,230.00. Also, his fees continued as on the 8th August 2016 got $ 90,000.00 and 19th December 2016 the total salary $ 60,000.00.

The lobbyist has during the 2 year period earned astonishing $ 362,000.00!

The CNDD-FDD could afford to pay a man to spread their message and play after their tune in the congress and senate! This shows the power of the monies, as the lobbyist himself explained his position and what he did to earn this amount of money: “Registrant (Scribe Strategies & Advisors) counseled and advised the Government of Burundi on U.S. Policy and informed congressional and executive branch officials and staff and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) on development in Burundi, and promoted relations between the United States and Burundi. Registrant provided public relations support and strategies to the Government of Burundi” (13.04.2017 – NSD/FARA Registration Unit).

Registrant (Scribe Strategies & Advisors) arranged for Foreign Minister Alain Nyamitwe to speak at the Atlantic Council on June 22, 2015 and on the VOA’s “Straight Talk Africa” on June 23, 2015, and Newsmax TV on June 24, 2015, about recent political developments in Burundi; arranged for presidential spokesman Willy Nyamitwe to speak to the Atlantic Council on January 22, 2016, and on the VOA’s “Straight Talk Africa” on January 20, 2016, and on France24 TV on January 21, 2016, all of the topic of the recent developments in Burundi” (03.03.2016 – NSD/FARA Registration Unit).

Promote the cause of the NRM:

The Government of Uganda and their Foreign Affairs has used the same man to pursuit their agenda in Washington D.C. as they paid the man on the 5th May 2016 $ 62,500.00. In 2015 they also paid him well for the help of spreading the message of Foreign Minster Kuteesa on the 24th June 2015 paid $ 55,200.00, also $ 69,800.00 on 7th August 2015 and on 9th December 2015 $ 64,535.11. The Government of Uganda totally paid the amount $ 250,000.00 to the lobbyist over 2 years!

Registrant (Scribe Strategies & Advisors) arranged for Foreign Minister Sam Kuteesa to appear on Voice of America program. “Straight Talk Africa” September 16, 2015; the topic was Kutesa’s tenure as President of the United States General Assembly; also arranged for Kutesa to speak at the Atlantic Council on September 15, 2015, on the same topic” (03.03.2016 – NSD/FARA Registration Unit).

That the company uses their reach and their messages as back in day, in 2015, when Scribe Strategies and Advisors, they used Kevin J. Kelley to write a piece in the Daily Nation:

Mr Szlavik noted that his firm did have a contract about 10 years ago to lobby for Uganda in the US. In accordance with that deal, Mr Szlavik explained, Scribe sought to persuade the Bush administration to list the Lord’s Resistance Army and the Alliance of Democratic Forces as terrorist organisations. The US does designate the LRA and ADF in that way” (…) “Earlier this year, Mr Szlavik added, he discussed with Uganda’s ambassador in Washington the possibility of Scribe again doing lobbying work for Uganda in the United States. But no agreement has been made, Mr Szlavik said. “There’s no contract, no numbers, no payment,” he declared” (Kelley, 2015).

There should be discussion and counsel going on as just a brief month after the interview and article in the Daily Nation, the company earned about $ 60,000 paid by the Ugandan government. So the company knew all about it in 2015, but wanted to spin the news and their role.

The Company was more upfront about their role in spinning the news for Burundi, as the Scribe Lobbying firm in 2015, addressed matters close to the heart of government of Burundi and again, they used their fellow journalist in the Daily Nation:

The allegations by Joseph Szlavik, head of Scribe Strategies & Advisors, followed reports of fighting between government troops and an unidentified armed group near Burundi’s border with Rwanda” (…) “Mr Szlavik noted in an interview with the Nation that the Burundian leader’s right to run for re-election had been affirmed in May by the country’s Constitutional Court” (…) “Western powers call for respect for the rule of law, and this was the ruling by the Constitutional Court of Burundi,” Mr Szlavik said” (Kelley, 2015).

So Szlavik, the man paid by the Government was clearly knowingly keeping it cool with Burundian authorities, not only spreading their agenda, but also their motives to keep power. Using the tools of legislation and not addressing the grievances of the people demonstrating at the time. Therefore, showing that the ones feeding him was more important than actual justice. That they also, this used the fellow friend in the Daily Nation, show’s how systematic the Scribe Strategies and Advisors work in the East African region.

This is just a quick look into the matter and not really digging deep into the polishing tricks of the company and their employees, as their staff and connections into the House and Senate in the United States was massive. The role to play and their reasoning as the paychecks from CNDD-FDD and NRM comes, they easily comply with the methods and needs from Bujumbura and Kampala. With no care of the implications and ramifications to the innocent in Burundi nor Uganda. Certainly, this is blood-money and I hope they are cursed. Peace.

Reference:

Kelley, Kevin J. – ‘US lobbying firm denies Uganda is currently a client’ (01.04.2015) link:http://www.africareview.com/news/US-lobbying-firm-denies-Uganda-is-currently-a-client/979180-2672786-3ti6at/index.html

Kelley, Kevin J. – ‘Burundi claims Rwanda aiding rebels’ (13.07.2015)

MPS 2017/2018 KCCA: A Political budget and a sorry state for the schools…

Honorable Beti Kamya have put forward the proposed budget for the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and it reveals certain aspects. For being such a loyal crony of President Museveni, Hon. Beti Kamya and Executive Director Jennifer Musisi are painting a bleak picture of the Capital City. Therefore, the reports from the leadership to the Parliament proves the initial mismanagement and the needed functions lacking resources. This is only in Kampala, just breath for a moment and think how it will be up-country! Just take a look!

For the FY 2017/18, KCCA budget is projected at UGX 337.39 Bn of which UGX 162.8 Bn is Government grants, UGX 20Bn is from Uganda Road Fund, UGX 31.79 Bn is for the FY 2017/18, KCCA budget is projected at UGX 337.39 Bn of which UGX” (KCCA, P: 5, 2017).

Political budget:

UGX 14.9 billion for Monthly emoluments for political leaders and their political assistant at Divisional and Authority level” (…) “ UGX 1.3 billion for Committee sitting allowances” (…) “UGX 103.4 million for payment of local council political leaders” (KCCA, P: 52, 2017).

Office advances:

The KCCA have put forward to the Town Clerks shs. 5 millions, to the Divison’s Mayor’s shs. 5 millions and the Deputy Mayor’s shs. 1,5 million, this is all office imprest, an imprest is an advance for government work. So the advance for office equipment comes for possibly service rendered (KCCA, P: 116, 2017).

Unfunded roads:

Over the last four years, KCCA with support from the Government of Uganda has invested heavily in improving the City Road network however, unfunded road works are estimated at over UGX 25.4 billion” (KCCA, P: 64, 2017).

Improvement of Schools:

KCCA inherited a total of 81 public primary schools many of which are dilapidated. The public schools accommodate a total of 67,700 children. Although efforts have been made to improve the conditions and facilities at some of the schools, many remain in a sorry state. The situation has also been compounded by the fact that KCCA does not have ownership of some of the land on which the schools are situated. KCCA requires UGX. 5 billion to reconstruct and upgrade 6 schools where title of ownership has been secured. These include; Kansanga P/S in Makindye (1200 pupils), Kisasi P/s in Kawempe (900 pupils), Kyagwe Rd P/s in Central (700 pupils and currently absorbing pupils from Nabagereka P/S), Bukasa P/S in Makindye (700 pupils), Mirembe P/S in Makindye (870 Pupils) and Kitebi P/S in Lubaga (2,100 pupils)” (KCCA, P: 64,2017).

This here says it all about the state of affairs in Kampala, there are planned expansions of roads and such, but that should be up to Kampala Express and Kampala Dispatch to discuss. Just joking, but the truth is that there is clearly a drainage problem and lots of the MPS is devoted to this, as much as the road construction as well. I just look at the total overall and what is most significant. Hope it gives you insights to how the new Minister and loyal crony Hon. Kamya thinks of the administration of the city. Peace.

Reference:

Kampala Capital City Authority – ‘MINISTERIAL POLICY STATEMENT For FINANCIAL YEAR 2017/18 VOTE 122’

10th Parliament pass a Motion urging President Museveni to declare “State of Emergency” concerning the Food Insecurity!

Prime Minister Rukana Rugunda in Parliament as the motion went to the plenary: “There are hospitals that have no drugs” (Parliament Watch, 26.04.2017)

Today the 10th Parliament passed a motion made by Hon. Monica Amonding (Kumi District), Hon. Felix Ogong Okot (Dokolo South) and Hon. Silas Aogon (Kumi Municipality). They urged the President to declare the Republic are in a “State of Emergency”. This would be done over the famine and influx of refugees, that the Ugandan Republic would naturally both struggle with. As the Government have not functioning structures to fulfill the disasters at this rate, neither the over a 1 million of South Sudanese refugees.

The Minister can be quoted in the motion saying this:

WHEREAS objective XXII of the National Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy states that the State shall take appropriate steps to encourage people to grow and store adequate food, establish national food reserve and encourage and promote proper nutrition through mass education and other appropriate means in order to build a health state;” (…) “AND WHEREAS OBJECTIVE XIII urges the State to institute effective machinery for dealing with any hazard or disaster arising out of natural calamities or any situation resulting in displacing of the people or serious disruption of their normal life;” (…) “NOTHING THAT Article 110 (1) (b) provides that the President may in consultation with cabinet, by a proclamation, declare that a state of emergency exists in Uganda or any parts of Uganda if he satisfied that the security of economic life of the Country or a part of the Country is threatened by natural disaster” (…) “FURTHER NOTHING THAT most parts of Uganda has this year suffered prolonged drought and famine which has not allowed people to plant on time, while what has already have been planted have dried up and has not yielded any fruits;” (…) “NOTHING THAT the prolonged drought has become a big threat to the lives of both people and animals since Uganda largely depends on agriculture for both food and income;” (…) “REALIZING THAT as a result of this drought and famine, a number of people have been taken ill and others have died of starvation;” (…) “COGNISANT THAT food insecurity has escalated and it’s believed to be the major reason behind the wave of criminal activities which has swept the country and caused mayhem through the country, since people are desperate to get what to feed on;” (…) “AWARE THAT Members of Parliament have on several occasions alerted government of the looming dangers that the Country faces it stringent measures are not put in place to arrest the level of famine in the country” (…) “NOW THEREFORE this motion if moved urging – The President to declare a state of emergency in the country to address the food insecurity” (Motion for a Resolution of Parliament Urging the President to Declare A State of Emergency to address the Alarming Food Insecurity in the Country, 26.04.2017 – Uganda Parliament).

That the MP’s Amonding, Okot and Aogon are doing this in good faith, as they have fate that the President and his cronies will address the Food Insecurity and take care of the citizens. That the President who not to long ago, claimed there we’re no famine in Uganda. There are clearly lacking of food and the reports of the dire situation in many districts are clearly not encouraging. The bleak situation have not changed.

That the State and have significant works to do, not only to declare, but facilitate and make sure the famine struck areas get funding, secondly get food delivery to patch up the hurt. Than the education and useful technique’s for farmers and citizens to take of the water in the seasons, then to reuse it when the dry-seasons are coming. This is certainly something that the citizens know and the state as well. So the government, departments, agencies and the local government should have measures and plans to tackle the famine and the high levels of food insecurity. Also, look to their donors and multi-national organizations that they have gotten help from in the past to support extra in the time of need.

This can be done if the President Yoweri Museveni, actually cries out for help and that he can have the guts to say: “…I have managed the country for 3 decades, the famines was worse under Obote and Amin, but now for the first time as President, I have to say, I have not done my duty, neither has the Movement. We are living in troubling times, the government was not prepared for El Nino and neither was the peasant farmers and villagers. The NRM, I the President as the Ugandan, will now declare State of Emergency. We are not at fault, the climate change and weather is the reason for this….”. If he would have uttered words like this, because I don’t expect the old man with the hat, to ask for forgiveness or say he is at fault. Still, if he proves that the Republic are in trouble and say it to the world. It should be understood.

The FAO, FEWSNET and other has established it and warned for months, while the Republic and the State didn’t act upon it. They we’re lacking procedures and ways of allocating funds for food delivery and steady organization to give relief to the starving citizens. Therefore, the need for declaration is great way of showing to the world and get donations to direct aid on it. But to build structures and disaster relief should have been made by the Ministry for Relief and Disaster Preparedness and the State Minister Musa Francis Ecweru. That Department or Ministry should have the mandate and the needed funds to commit to help the citizens who are barley having one meal day or two, depending on which hurt district it is about right now.

That the MP’s are now tabling and urging the President to act upon it and to declare a Stat of Emergency because of the concern of the agricultural output and the food insecurity. The State could have acted earlier, they could have pledged to this and been upfront, as they have added their own tally with massive flood of refugees combined with drought. The world would have reacted or we could have hoped they had reacted to it, that the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and others could have made efforts to salvage the dire situation. The food insecurity is high and the state has to act. Peace.

Apparently, Mzee needs counsel from 163 appointed individuals!

It is just one of these days that the souring networks of brown-enveloped friendly figures in Uganda gets to level that is certainly, only one thing, and one thing only: “Bonkers”. That the Republic of Uganda, has such a giant cabinet already, should be a warning sign, but now with the extended Presidential Advisors, the levels of cronyism, isn’t funny, but a sincere apology to anyone who thought President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni cared about Steady Progress. The progression, apparently, meaning him giving favors and creating jobs for loyalty.

“The move is in keeping with the president’s tradition of shoring up the numbers of his presidential advisors after every election cycle or cabinet reshuffle. However, the request, which would raise the number of presidential advisors from 145 to 163, has met strong opposition from members of Parliament. According to the 2017/18 ministerial policy statement for the Presidency, the appointment of the 18 presidential advisors will push the wage budget for the advisors up by Shs 28.5bn. By the time he was sworn-in last year for his fifth elective presidential term, Museveni had 141 advisors. He drafted in four former ministers who lost the February 2016 elections. The 18 new advisors will be appointed on ministerial terms, joining another 12 who were previously appointed on similar terms” (Kaaya, 2017).

If progression only means massive amount of cronies put into his sphere of influence, than the Republic should be booming. With the patronage and the extended surplus civil servants with portfolios, that does not even know the agencies beneath or the toil of their reach. That the Presidential Advisors are former MPs, former Permanent Secretaries or just people who has an old promise from the old man with the hat. Who knows really?

Certainly, he should be the most enlighten president and the one who should have the most balanced approach to the state, if all of the Presidential Advisors was educated professionals in their respected fields. Well, we know it is not so, or cannot be so, since he has not appointed 145 specialists. Rather it being cronies who are there for their paycheck and their brown envelope before returning home for their daily bread.

President Museveni is either a genius or gone bonkers. Why? Well, if he is wise, than it is because let all of his advisors spit poetry of knowledge into his earholes and that in-depth understand of the subject are understood by the old man, before his decisions are made. I doubt it is so, more like his own arrogance and struggle to find suitable positions for his cronies. He creates more positions instead of building institutions or departments, even agencies who actually are technical and advance. Because why bother? They might undermine the intelligence of the President and his merry counsel.

That President Museveni has no quarrel or any issues concerning this growing amount of advisors is mere a reflection of his patronage and wish to control. Not to listen or gain knowledge, if so the 145 already appointed should or could give the man a moment or two with brilliance. Neither is happening and the status quo, is that this sort is mismanagement and waste of state resources is only to keep the loyal subjects close to Museveni, not to build a better state. Peace.

Reference:

Kaaya, Sadab Kitatta – ‘MPs protest as Museveni asks for more advisors’ (26.04.2017) link: http://observer.ug/news/headlines/52550-mps-protest-as-museveni-asks-for-more-advisors.html

Revealed: The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiques in Uganda have not appointed needed boards for their agencies!

The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiques came to sort of revelation in Parliament, that shows the lack of governance and institutionalism that is too common in the Republic of Uganda. That the National Resistance Movement has established agencies under the ministry, but have no-one running them. They have not even appointed boards or even have procedures to select the appointments to them. What a special event. Just take a brief look at the assessment that the Parliament Watch describes from the session today!

“The Committee on tourism trade and Industry has learnt that the different agencies under the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities have no Boards. For example, Uganda Tourism Board, Wildlife Education Centre, Uganda Hotel, Tourism and Training Institute. Members have urged the Minister to inform the Prime Minister and the President in the next Cabinet meeting that the Committee will not consider the budget unless the Boards are instituted by the Ministry. Committee observed that it is a deliberate move to control agencies through the line ministry” (Parliament Watch, 25.04.2017).

A definition of a board from Meriam Webster says this: “a group of persons having managerial, supervisory, investigatory, or advisory powers” (Meriam Webster – Definition of board). So the ministry do not at the current state have the capacity to involve people to have a managerial or a supervisory role over agencies beneath themselves. That must be the true definition of steady progress, as state affairs goes, aye?

Like Uganda Tourism Board was already established by 1994. So the NRM has had the time to handpick the men and woman fit for the works and roles, still they have none. So the one agency involved in marketing and promoting the republic as a travelling destination does not have a board. Even the web-page of UTB says this: “The Minister of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities, appoints the Board of Directors for Uganda Tourism Board on a 3 year term. The Board has an oversight and advisory role over the work and plans of UTB. The Board of Directors is headed by a Chairperson supported by members representing public and private sector tourism stakeholders” (UTB – Board of Directors link: http://www.corporate.visituganda.com/about-us/board-of-directors/ ).

So the Ministry themselves should have the ability to make decisions fitted for appointing the needed personnel, without having the blessing of the President nor the Prime Minister. This is just one of the agencies and it didn’t take long time to look into it, the funny thing was, when you tried to go to the “Management Team” link on page, the only thing coming up on the page was “Bad”. So the knowledge of missing links and personnel is even visible to the tourism flagship page.

That the Minister Ephraim Kamuntu has work to do and people to employ certainly, also to get budget to keep their salaries in balance, as the agencies does need funds. Certainly, he has a State Minster Godfrey Kiwanda Suubi, who must have some insights and knowledge of some heads to collect. In addition, the Permanent Secretary Doreen Katusiime got know somebody fitting the program and vision of the agencies. If none of these three smart and bright, fellow appointees of the President can pick someone to the boards. Than the Director James Lutalo, should be able to find someone, educated and experienced in the field to envision the progression of the tourism industry and the wildlife experience in Uganda.

With the abundance of Presidential appointments to the Ministry, they should have the capacity and the ability to get the boards up and running, as well as a check-and-balancing act, to see that they do what the Ministry are supposed to do. So that the destination Uganda, can be a splendid travel for tourists. To make sure that they can have the best time while being there. Peace.

Uganda: Civil Society Position on Tax Revenue Measures for FY 2017/18 (21.04.2017)

Report from the MoFPED shows the growing Ugandan debt by June 2016!

Again, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) dropped another report on the fiscal policies and the fiscal health of the economy in Uganda. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) have created this environment as the growing debt and growing interest payment comes with their planned debt rise. Still, the PriceWaterhouseCoopers spelled gloom earlier in the year, as this report was dropped on the MoFPED web page today. Even if the Report was spelled out in December 2016. It is if like the NRM didn’t want this to spelled out early. Since the numbers aren’t compelling of an arts piece, more issues… just take a look!

The stock of total public debt grew from US$ 7.2 billion at the end of June 2015 to US$ 8.4 billion in June 2016. This represents an increase from 30.6% of GDP to 33.8% over the two periods. The increase was largely on account of external debt, which grew from US$ 4.4 billion to US$ 5.2 billion over the period. Domestic debt increased from US$ 2.8 billion to US$ 3.2 billion” (MoFPED, P:V, 2016).

That the debt are growing quick, as the public debt grew with US$ 1.2 billion, that the percentage of GDP went up with 3,2%, the external debt rose with US$ 0.8 billion and the Domestic debt went up US$ 0.4 billion. All of these numbers show the amount of monies that the Government are adding on their debt, as the UNRA and the development projects are suspended by World Bank. So the Infrastructure development can be questioned as the growing debt, as the government must have other uses of the growing and scaled up debt. Since the transparency of the economy isn’t there and that the sanctioned bills comes from the State House. Just look at the growing interest rates as well.

Interest Payment as a percentage of GDP stood at 2.2% as at end June 2016, up from 1.9% as at June 2015. The increase is largely explained by interest payments on domestic debt, which grew from Shs 1,077 billion in FY2014/15 to 1,470 billion in FY2015/16. There was a significant increase in the weighted average interest rate of Government debt; from 5.9% to 6.5% in June 2015/16. This followed increases in the weighted interest rates for both domestic and external debt, from 13.6% to 15.3% for domestic debt and from 0.9% to 1.2% external debt. As interest rates increase, so do the debt service obligations of Government” (MoFPED, P: 4, 2016).

The difference between June 2015 and June 2016 the percentage has grown with 0.3%, the domestic interest rate grew with Shs. 0.393 billion. The Interest rate alone went up by percentage 0.6%, as the weighted interest rates went up 1.7%. The key sentence that the report wrote and I repeat: “As interest rates increase, so do the debt service obligations of Government”.

That idea isn’t only on the interest payment percentages are running higher, but as the debt goes up, the interests goes up. So the Debt Service Obligations are going up for the Government. This is a natural outcome, that the obligations for the state goes up with the amount of debt it rises. So the government can try to portray this is controlled, and to one extent it is under control. Still, the growth in this regard proves that the NRM regime are pilling up debt and increasing their debt, as well as interests. In the end this will make the state worse. Especially knowing that the energy dams have been built poorly and many of the expensive roads haven been fruitful. This is development that the growing debt is being used to…

So the NRM regime and the Ugandan government isn’t believable… the rise of debt and interests show’s the current state of affairs. Even if the percentage is after plan, the government still has to take charge and make sure they can pay back both the debt and interests. Peace.

Reference:

Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) – ‘DEBT SUSTAINABILITY

ANALYSIS REPORT 2015/16’

Opinion: Gen. Muntu wished back to NRM by Lumumba, is this another sign of disarming the opposition?

Well,  since the General Election of 2016, there been all sorts of play from the National Resistance Movement (NRM). Where the Opposition parties has either gotten ministerial posistions, EALA slots or even been detained. In ways of solidifying the NRM regime and their President for life – President Yoweri Museveni. Therefore the news that the NRM Secretary General Justine Lumumba wishes the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) President Gen. Mugisha Muntu, shows there some foul play in the cards. The deck is usually sealed and this cannot be the party line, as the talks of succession is a stalemate as long as Museveni breathes on planet earth. But take a brief look at the quotes from the Secretary General Lumumba.  

“Ms Justine Lumumba, who represented First Lady Janet Museveni at a belated Women’s Day celebrations for Ntungamo District at Rwenanura Primary School playground in Rweikiniro Sub-county, said: “Gen Muntu comes from this district, from Kitunga, I even know the village where he comes from, he is a sober man but he is walking with wrong company. Talk to him as his brothers that he comes back, if there are any grievances or anything that angered him, we can resolve it.” (…) “He is someone who can bring back the presidency here; he is such a good player in a bad team,” she added” (Rumanzi, 2017).

That Lumumba said the FDC was a bad team, was expected as she has that view of anyone who isn’t in the NRM Organization or the Movement. Therefore, that Gen. Muntu is around Lukwago and Besigye, means he is in a bad team. That Muntu is suddenly in the wrong company, means that he isn’t directly a part of the NRM. The right party and company is the NRM. That is if you get the deeper meaning of what NRM Secretary Lumumba was saying yesterday.

The good company is the 31 year old regime under President Museveni. It is not like the NRM has ever consider succession and using that as sweet gift to Gen. Muntu is most likely hogwash. As the Maj. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerubaga is most likely the next in line, if the President get his wish. Why else would he stop the Daily Monitor Press a few years back when the Gen. Sejusa tale leaked to the Press?

If the NRM would offer anything it would be a ministerial role, an ambassador and trading away the normative and legitimate leadership role of Gen. Muntu. Even if Gen. Muntu sometimes isn’t progressive, aggressively enough against the regime, who use all sorts of tricks to manipulate and control the Republic. Therefore this must been seen as a ploy to destabilize the FDC. As they hope the fraction and people loyal to Muntu would be swayed back to fold. Leave Besigye and the hardliners behind.

This would be typical way of offering a gift and then destroy the competition, as they know many of the FDC NEC and FDC leadership has no real need of either going back to the NRM or any wish to be back there. Since many of the FDC leaders has been former NRM, especially the ones who established the party and wanted a significant different party than the NRM.

So the Machiavellian approach by Secretary General Lumumba and the NRM, can be seen as a tactic to undermine the leader in the FDC; while offering and saying he would be fit to come after President Museveni. Like the NRM could offer anyone that, as the NRM couldn’t do that to their own like Amama Mbabazi or back-in-the-day Kizza Besigye. So why should Gen. Mugisha Muntu suddenly be good enough? Do the NRM think their citizens are generally stupid?

Peace!   

Reference:

Rumanzi, Perez – ‘Return Muntu to succeed Museveni, says Lumumba’ (17.04.2017) link:http://www.monitor.co.ug/News/National/Return-Muntu-to-succeed-Museveni–says-Lumumba/688334-3892216-h9ejj2/index.html