Opinion: Bwanika is ready to dip…

“Abed Bwanika threatens to quit NUP if constitutional reforms regulating elected leaders to two terms are not reconsidered. The Kimanya Kabonera MP spit fire on CBS over the weekend where he claimed the reforms will deny the party senior and experienced leaders like himself” (The Kampala Journal, 25.04.2023).

I am neither shocked nor surprised that this comes from Hon. Abed Bwanika. He has become a journeyman of sorts. Bwanika is the former three times Presidential Candidate. A man who has been on the ballot in 2006, 2011 and 2016. Also created a church and a political party. Before joining National Unity Platform (NUP).

Bwanika was the only independent candidate in 2006 but had already launched his People’s Development Party (PDP) by the 2011 elections. A party he ran on its platform until the 2016 elections. In the term after that he joined the DP Block and became a part of the new outfit. That happened in 2019 and he bolted from that and stood on the ballot for NUP in 2021 elections as an MP.

That just shows how swiftly everything changed and how he went from one outfit or party to another. He went from his own and became a part of the DP Block. However, when that didn’t go to plan. Bwanika left and found a safe haven in the NUP.

Now he is issuing grievances and coming with threats of leaving. Surely, if he leaves his just another journeyman and vagabond who flees the party. Another one of them who got hooked on the wave, but now see the reality of the party he entered. A man who couldn’t phantom that the party had principals and ideals to adhere too.

Bwanika has already tried to get into Presidency three times and finally entered office with the NUP. He has gotten the opportunity to be an MP and he got nothing to show from it. As an MP he hasn’t been vocal or caused a commotion. Neither is he causing a stir or even writing motions to get legislation done. Therefore, his just eating and enjoying the perks of the office without doing more work.

I’m not surprised that he was against the idea of two terms for elected officials within the NUP. He could just dip or ditch the party. Nevertheless, a man who was willing to stand three times for the Presidency and fails. He feels obligated to try more than ones in another office. That is just basic human behaviour. It would go against everything inside him to do otherwise.

Bwanika wants to represent and be a high ranking official. He finally has entered Parliament and with this party constitution. His only allowed to be the MP one more term. That means it is all ending soon and before he really gets to eat. When he has fought tooth and nail since 2006.

We know he can trade his ideals beliefs, because he has in the past sworn an affidavit in support of the elections in 2006 and in defence of Museveni. Therefore, he could easily be swayed again. It just shows how open policy the NUP has when they have allowed these characters to join and get to eat cake.

Bwanika should feel lucky and blessed to be where he is. Because, as a Presidential Candidate he was a joke. Now he finally has a voice and a party to reconcile with. A party that isn’t a briefcase one, but a legit one. That’s why he was able to be elected in the first place. Bwanika should pray to the Gods and be grateful.

Now he does the opposite and proves what sort of journeyman he is. Peace.

Opinion: Revisiting the TDA [and where are they now?]

“5. The goal of The Democratic Alliance shall be achieved through the pursuance of the following objectives:

a) Building the necessary mobilization capabilities and organizational infrastructure of the Alliance and its members in order to win power;

b) Developing and presenting a common policy and governance agenda for elections;

c) Ensuring the attainment of an electoral majority by fielding candidates for all electoral positions across the country;

d) Fielding of joint candidates for electoral offices as set out in this Protocol;

e) Constituting a Transitional Government of National Unity (TGNU) with the purpose of implementing appropriate political and economic reforms to build a strong and durable foundation for democracy, rule of law and economic justice” (Protocol of the Democratic Alliance, June 2015).

Because of the recent cooperation agreement between the Democratic Party (DP) and the National Resistance Movement (NRM). This has started questions about the legitimacy of the coalition that was one part of the opposition ahead of the General Elections in 2016. It is striking that this is happening now and it’s worth to look into what has happened ever since.

The TDA was a coalition made by a various set of parties. The two parties that directly went out of the coalition early was Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) and the Forum for Democratic of Change (FDC). However, the others stayed behind and they went ahead to stand behind the former Prime Minister and Secretary General of the NRM, Amama Mbabazi. He became the Joint Presidential Candidate of the TDA and the Pressure Group of “Go Forward”.

The TDA was much larger than Mbabazi alone. It was the Conservative Party (CP), Democratic Party (DP), Justice Forum (JEEMA), Pressure for National Unity (PNU), People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and Uganda Federal Alliance (UFA). So, there were a handful of leaders in and around the TDA. There was also Olara Otunnu from the UPC and Dr. Kizza Besigye from the FDC. The UPC as a party left, but Otunnu stayed on, if I remember correctly.

The leaders who are vital part of TDA was Amama Mbabazi, Ken Lukyamuzi, Norbert Mao, Asuman Basalirwa, Beti Kamya, Gilbert Bukenya aka Mahogany and Dick Odur. There was also others associated and part of the proceedings like Mugisha Muntu and others. Therefore, it was a team of the opposition at the time who at certain points did their part here.

However, as time has shown us. Plenty of these people has sided with the NRM or returned to the NRM. The Presidential Flag-Bearer Mbabazi was a NRM Member and hadn’t revoked his membership as he was standing up against Museveni. So, that he returned and is in the good graces with the President is just natural. The stage of Go Forward was only a short sighted project and was over the moment the election was over.

Bukenya has also returned and is living the good life. His living large and having perks with titles and being part of the elite. The Former Vice President has no worries and was only for a minute or less an “opposition”. I doubt we will ever see anything of the PNU ever again.

Mao has just become the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. His working in cooperation with the government. Still part of the DP but he has a hectic period ahead of him. As insiders in the party wants him out and ousted. Since, this agreement wasn’t signed of from the party or the members. The DP Block has even dismissed him too.

Kamya has gone from being appointed Minister of Kampala. To lose her leadership of her party the UFA. Later becoming a NRM Member and changing Ministry. Now she’s the IGG but certainly not electable or viable candidate. She has become a typical crony of Museveni over the years.

Basalirwa has been close to the People Power Movement and the National Unity Platform. He has ensured popularity and gotten elected into Parliament as the only JEEMA MP. Therefore, his the first man here who is actual opposition from the TDA still.

Lukyamuzi has on the other hand lost his constituency and not become a third time re-elected to Rubaga South MP. He instead focused on finishing his degree, which he did in 2017. The Party President and former MP has been a vocal critic of the government. Even made a case against the Age Limit in the courts, which was dismissed. So, he is an actual man in the opposition. “The Man” is true to his missions and his goals.

Otunnu has been resigned from politics. He also lost the Party Presidency. The UPC has since then signed a secret agreement with the NRM. That’s why the UPC haven’t fielded a Presidential Candidate for two elections in a row. Otunnu has kept himself in the background and you can wonder if he will resurface or do anything for that matter.

Muntu also lost the Party Presidency. He lost to another candidate within the FDC. This made him create a New Formation, which is now known as the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT). That party was launched in time for the 2021 General Elections and he ran as President.

Besigye ran a the Presidential Flag-Bearer for the FDC and created the People’s Government after swearing himself in after the General Elections in 2016. Since then he has launched several of campaigns and the latest after the 2021 elections is the Red Card Front. A voice of the opposition still.

There are several of other leaders who are in the opposition that was a part of the TDA in 2015/2016. These could be Mathias Mpuuga (former DP now NUP), Betty Nambooze (former DP now NUP) and so fourth. There are more people that has been involved and could be mentioned, but that would make this piece to long.

However, a huge pattern are still there. Plenty of the TDA high ranking leadership went either back to NRM or has found a home in government. That is really happening on a larger scale. We shouldn’t be surprised that Mbabazi and Bukenya went back home. However, the others should really be questioned…

This was a short revising of the TDA. An alliance built quickly and seemingly destroyed. It wasn’t meant to be. We shouldn’t expect the Go Forward or the PNU to be returning either. The era of the TDA is gone and it’s for a reason. The TDA was built on sand and not on mountain. If it had been real and a sincere enterprise. So many of these leaders wouldn’t have sought shelter under the wings of the man who they were promised to create a Transitional Government of National Unity (TGNU).

Obviously… things didn’t pan out, but it is a picture, which shows how the times are changing. Peace.

Opinion: The army is involved everywhere Mr. Muntu

“Gen Muhoozi has his own right as a Ugandan citizen to exercise that right as a Ugandan and run for any political office. The only problem I see if he is really interested in running as a President of the country, Gen Museveni who should be more experienced in these matters, should have first released him from the army because the moment you let Gen Muhoozi who is in uniform, a serving officer, trying to project him for politics, you are literally trying to drag in the whole national security apparatus, something which has its own problems” – Maj. Gen. Mugisha Muntu (25.04.2022).

The sentiment the leader of Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) Maj. Gen. Mugisha Muntu is right… but it’s faulty. The Uganda Peoples Defence Force (UPDF) is already involved and participating in every part of life. The UPDF and the authorities are inside and part of politics, because that’s how the regime rolls and continues to thrive.

The UPDF is building roads, construction of public buildings, giving away mosquito-nets, killing army-worms, going after rouge fishermen on Lake Victoria and participate directly in politics. The ones who don’t believe that… should be reminded that the UPDF have 5 MPs elected into Parliament. These are supposed to be “non-partisan” but we know they are towing the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party line. They would never double-cross the State House or the NRM Caucus. That’s not happening…

The UPDF and all of it’s agencies are used to intimidate, keep civilians and activists incommunicado. The UPDF and the other agencies has kidnapped, tortured and even used Court Martial as a means of silencing opposition leaders. The UPDF is so embedded that it’s a tool of oppression and using vicious impunity to strike the dissidents hard. The CMI, SFC, LDCs or UPDF are all involved and makes the state more powerful in comparison to everyone else.

Muntu saying Muhoozi is problematic because his an army-man and a commander is right. That is an observation, which is truthful, but at the same time. The militarization of the NRM and politics is just proven every time they are holding conferences at Kyankwanzi. When you are seeing ministers and MPs wearing military fatigue. Heck, the President either wears a yellow shirt, a suit or military fatigue. That’s his whole closet and it’s evident how important the armed forces are for him. Because, everyone knows that the NRM and the regime isn’t living on its popularity. It thrives on intimidation and fear… that’s when the soldiers and military is useful.

We all knows this and Muntu should know this as well. The NRM and the state has been this for a long time. Muhoozi is now more involved, but that’s by entitlement and not by his achievement by any means. The Lt. Gen. is only there because his the son and nothing else. He got no skills, charisma or ability worth a damn. He can only live on the wealth of the inner-circle and the power of the army. That’s why he had to wear a military fatigue and be like his father.

However, Muhoozi is just the symbol of how the military is needed and a reason for the current status quo in government. The NRM cannot survive or hold power without the army. The army and their agencies gives them an edge and can silence the ones they need to stop. That’s why Muhoozi doesn’t distance himself and wants to be looked like a powerful General. His boosting his ego on twitter and being part of campaigns when he can like in the DRC, Karamoja and even Kasese. That’s why he got blood on his hands and no one is even questioning that.

Muhoozi just think he can walk from one office into another one. He thinks he can occupy and takeover without merit from his father. The officers and the ones hired for the gig will praise the man, but everyone knows that his useless. The ones saying otherwise has little to nothing to prove. The NRM and such will ensure he gets a soft landing. “Project Muhoozi” has been in the works and that’s evident by now.

Muntu is right, but the UPDF is everywhere and isn’t going anywhere. Peace.

Opinion: Norbert Mao is a fallen soldier

The Democratic Party President Norbert Mao who has lead his party since 2010 and in 2022 is going on a war-path towards anyone in the opposition. Throwing tantrums and speaking of hypocrisy. While never taking into account his own actions and mischief, as his the superior and supposed great leader. Alas, there is the burden of proof and of thoughtfulness, as he has targeted the other opposition before… and he has never succeeded himself in his causes. Maybe that’s why his so bitter these days.

He should have a resounding legacy and merits to show for it. Mao has been leading a party for a decade and still has little results to show for. There has been little to none in concern to legislation, even less with the spark of flair or proof of validity of astonishing brinkmanship within the opposition on his behalf. If it had been so… he wouldn’t acted like he does these days.

It is a reason why he haven’t gained politically or become a bigger voice with time. As the Party President and DP seems to loose relevance. That his trying to spark it now is obvious. Just like tried to get anyone under his DP block, as a unified front and hoped Bobi Wine would tag along. Because, that would be like he ran around with Mbabazi in 2016.

Since we all know well by now that Mao isn’t the leader, the prospect or the majestic future of the Republic. His a glorified party leader, which resemble the same arrogance as previous presidential candidate Venansius Baryamureeba. Both are academic in their approach to the world, but oblivious to how to communicate their differences to public. That’s why they are not popular or have the ability to sell their narratives. This is why it’s easier to throw stones at Bobi Wine or Besigye, than trying to find solutions or even speak rational that makes sense. Since it’s cooler to sound eloquent and speaks the Queens language with a tone.

However, I think Mao needs a redemption and need atone for whatever that sparked these grievances. He needs his pity party and stop the pissing contest. Which is only making him look like a fool and sound like a fool. While his topping up and hoping someone else will give him air-time.

Mao’s rants is taking him nowhere and his a lost cause. It is an erratic shit-show with no purpose. Only to show how his lacking respect and dignity for his fellow allies in the opposition. He says he wants to talk to all leaders, but at the same time his throwing more charcoal on the fire. How does that add up, Mister? Well, it doesn’t and you are only bringing more heat.

Secondly, you know you have messed up as an opposition leader when the National Resistance Movement Youth League (NRMYL) is calling you a cadre, comrade or even a senior cadre in their tweet today. That’s not a sign of victory, unless you are in opposition to make a mess and create hostility. Because, that NRMYL loves that and the NRM itself will bash in glory over that.

Mao has done a better job undermining the opposition than government spokesperson, chief whip of Parliament or any NRM MPs in the recent days. The DP President has aired out all the dirty laundry without any good receipts. Still, his efforts are been recognized, but not by the people his supposed to get the “love” from. Therefore, if this was his project and the deliver was to be evaluated. It surely doesn’t look a successful one.

In this battle of words, the soldier chairman Mao is very lost and Saving Private Mao will not able to be found. He is behind the front-lines and cannot be accessed. God knows when he will return to sanity, but he will surely continue these antics. Because, it gets people talking. Even if it is only in a negative light about his own self. Which is tragic really. At one point… I saw him as a fellow opposition and a man of the future, actually. He looked bright in the light of “Walk to Work” together with other rising opposition leaders. However, the mighty has fallen and his disgraced his own name. All by himself and he got no one to blame but his own mouth. Peace.

Opinion: After Mao’s recent rants – I understand why the DP Block went nowhere

Yesterday on Twitter, Democratic Party (DP) Party President Norbert Mao went on a rampage in defence of Jacob Oulanyah and his own treatment abroad at some point. While also throwing all sorts of shade against the National Unity Platform (NUP). That was the key thing in what he was doing. He was trying to undermine and mock the NUP, as it has party funding and medical tourism themselves. However, he rather want them to look bad than take accountability himself.

Mao really showed his hiding in plain sight. His not a trustworthy actor or an opposition for that matter. We can all see why Lt. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerubaga loves this man. His one of them and he could easily wine-and-dine on a regular basis. Surely, he could go to the movies or participate at a venue with them. As they are clearly his friends…

What happened yesterday makes all sorts of sense why the DP Block or Special Purpose Vehicle didn’t work ahead of 2021 General Election. Where he tried to get Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine as the Presidential Candidate under his umbrella and his wings. However, that didn’t work and wasn’t a legit outfit in such manner. That’s why he is still feeling butt hurt that this project didn’t work like the Democratic Alliance (TDA) did in 2016.

In 2016 he was able to nearly get all opposition under the same organization and working together ahead of the polls. However, in 2020 and 2021 that wasn’t happening. Heck, Mao couldn’t even get the Third Force or the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) under his banner. There was never any sights on Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and only trying to hoodwink the NUP to be part of it.

That’s maybe why his on rampage in 2022. The 2021 elections proved how he lacks resources or ability to be viable leader. There is only briefcase parties and former DP leaders who joined in the DP Block. Well, even Abed Bwanika joined NUP instead of the DP together with a band of brothers who left Mao ahead of the polls to join Bobi Wine. That shows the blow and the lack of character he has.

At this point Museveni has the next generation of Ofwono Opondo in Mao. He can become the Government Spokesperson and just get his meal-ticket. So, he can defend the government and their policies. Now his defending party funding and taking a stand against the NUP this way. His defending Oulanyah just like the NRM MPs. The only difference is that Mao is a supposed opposition and outside government.

Well for some, his just turning into a glorified Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi. We can just await him to get Karamjoa Affairs or be a State House appointee. As he rather defend the state who doesn’t deliver proper service delivery and therefore… sending its VIPs into hospitals abroad. Alas, he rather defend the party funding and be a vocal voice like OO.

If he wants to be in opposition… he better act like one. Because, in 2022 it’s hard to see a difference between him or any of the NRM stooges in Parliament. He could just have Chief Whipped by NRM and told what to do. Since, there is no great knowledge or prosperous victory in his argument. It is just as flawed and only discredits himself. If that was his plan?

Well done Sir, I am sure the professors and intellectuals you look up gives you credit. Since, you are only looking like a fool. NUP is a part of the system and isn’t on an island. Still, it is at least trying to be an opposition who tries to keep the NRM accountable. The same does the FDC… but you?

Well… your a magnificent cheerleader who should just wear yellow and start professing your love for Museveni. That would sincere and not this astute disgust, which you delivered yesterday. Peace.

Opinion: Mao has given up…

“We must clarify our historical fundamentals. Our credibility must be beyond reproach on issues like human rights and good governance, on private enterprise and economic prosperity for all citizens, old messages do not work anymore. We must not churn out party messages as if we were addressing a 1960s electorate. We must seek to get elected because the best government is the best politics. Those who when given the chance to lead, lead well will continue to be re-elected again and again” – Norbert Mao (Muhamadi Matovu – ‘Mao: “DP should avoid mantra of regime change”’ 07.02.2022, Nile Post Uganda).

It’s official … Democratic Party President Norbert Mao isn’t even shielding it or trying to hide his discomfort. No, his just open about his intentions and his just one-of-them. That’s why he appreciated by Lt. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerubaga recently. It makes so much sense, as his compromised and doesn’t even want to challenge status quo.

When you want to avoid regime change and spread new messages… then your clearly not active or seeking the electorate. It is a reason why Dr. Kizza Besigye run on ‘Defiance’ and Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine ‘We are Removing a Dictator’. As the DP President don’t want to do this or follow any of their patterns.

It’s like Mao wants to follow Joseph Kabuleta or others before him. This sort of message is useless, when you don’t want to takeover or have a peaceful transition. The NRM is never delivering that to a man of Mao’s stature.

Mao haven’t proven a track-record, neither has party proven anything the recent election. Neither with MPs or even his Presidential Elections. No, they have been abysmal. So, him speaking of the old ways not working. It is right… is ways of ushering in Amama Mbabazi and other tricks to spoil the electorate.

Therefore, Mao seem stale and without an anchor. Because, he don’t know how to move forward or even be really relevant. That’s why his speaking up against the ones who fighting the dictatorship and the ruling regime. The ones who wants to get rid of it and the root problems of the state.

In this instance it is like Mao cut of his brain and only saw envelopes. Because, if he has seen the popularity and the rise of the National Unity Platform or Forum for Democratic Change for that matter. It wasn’t because they spoke about direct governance or taxes, but about a peaceful transition away from the NRM and Museveni. Which is what Mao is speaking up against now. Calling it old-school…

You have to address human rights and the basics, when the state is not fulfilling it. Neither when the basic rights or constitutional freedoms are there for the electorate. Indirectly what Mao is saying that theories and models matters more than that.

This is defeatism in the middle of a dictatorship. Mao cannot be taken serious as a choice or as an opposition leader. When he doesn’t seek to end the regime or challenge it. That is the message I’m getting. It’s pathetic … and the DP should just become a part of the NRM if that’s the case. Peace.

Opinion: Mao is clearly not an alternative

“It is important that they do that because it looks like these days the football game is played in our half only of the opposition; instead of the half of the National Resistance Movement. It is a big weakness that we have got to deal with! What is the role of an opposition? An opposition should present itself as an alternative government, not just as hecklers” – Norbert Mao (Jeff Andrew Lule – ‘Mao to opposition: Stop just being hecklers’ 12.01.2022, New Vision).

The Democratic Party President Norbert Mao is yet again speaking his peace in 2022. He has been the Party President for ages and has little to nothing to show from it. There haven’t been any progression or movement of which proves his relevancy. His only viable because of NBS Frontline appearances and feeding of the plate of IPOD. Therefore, Mao can call things out… but his voice isn’t that viable at this point.

He is a heckler himself and isn’t a figure who inspires, neither is his party a vehicle or a place of vision. No, the DP seems to be a platform for easy access and hopefuls who doesn’t have to challenge anyone. That is how it seems, as Mao is to friendly and to mellow to compete with full force ahead. That’s why the DP and Mao isn’t feared or under scrutiny like other opposition parties. This is maybe why others have left and reorganized elsewhere, where the futures and the possibilities to be viable was more clear.

Mao might not say that, as his blamed Besigye in the past and called him a serial looser. Though, Mao has a worse results and lacking of deliver in comparison. Even Bobi Wine with lesser time and ability to build up a party has achieved more than he has done for over a decade. That should be a warning of his withering role in national politics.

Instead of building a strong and a viable party. It looks more like a paid goofy role of Mao to be in the spotlight. It is not like he has close associates or party leaders who can gain the trust of which the ones who left recently. He might say the party is healthy and dandy, but for who? Him? Is it his domain now and what will leave behind?

The DP haven’t proven itself as a possible answer in the 2011, 2016 or in 2021. No, the DP couldn’t even make the DP Block as a unified visionary group within the opposition. It wasn’t even good enough for newcomers of Muntu and Bobi Wine to be part of. Heck, Mao was last time sidelined by NRM member Amama Mbabazi for the Presidency with the Go Forward Pressure Group within the Opposition Alliance The Democratic Alliance (TDA). Therefore, he cannot even pass as a man of the nation and should settle for MP for Gulu Municipality. That’s where his base is and where he has any hopes of high ranking official position in the Republic.

Mao calling others hecklers, because they don’t follow his guise and the way he purposely moves around with no end in sight. He speaks of being an alternative, but his not even an alternative to himself. Mao cannot even stomach to regain any sort of stature or position, which the NRM would fear or look after. His too peaceful and never does say or bother the state. If he did, he wouldn’t be soda at the police station and be left of the hook so easily. That’s why his just a mediocre leader with lack of enthusiasm. He doesn’t have the charisma or the message to spellbound anyone.

That’s why the academic Mao is a failure, but has to throw shade elsewhere. Just so his securing himself and looks wise. However, this is only backfiring since he has nothing to deliver himself. His a shell of a politician and with time the promise, which he had has withered. There is nothing left, but empty promises and a party of which the promising characters has left as well.

That’s why Mao couldn’t keep Mpuuga, Nambooze or Lukwago. There was nothing left for them to stay or be associated with. The DP Party and DP President couldn’t give them or serve them a purpose. That’s why they fled and sought out other pastures, which they have resolved their needs. Therefore, Mao is proven not to able to sustain the leaders of the opposition within his own organization.

So, at this very point… he is becoming the heckler and the noise-maker without any justification. As he has nothing to prove for his time and work. He only has a name and opportunity to show up on National TV, now and then. Peace.

Opinion: Orikunda’s Hero is a Zero

Today in the Nile Post, Sam Evidence Orikunda got a piece published called ‘Why President Museveni is my hero of 2021’. These sort of article and think pieces must be written by people who is seeking a higher office or wants to be loyal token soldiers to the President. Because, these sorts of texts doesn’t have the composure or the arguments to back it all up.

It isn’t strange if Orikunda wants a better job, as his currently a Deputy Residential District Commander and that’s an unforgiving office in a district in the republic. As he needs something more to aim for and more fulfilling. I don’t blame Sam for that. This is maybe the reason for the praising of the President. In the hopes that the State House and some of the cronies in the entourage of the President will recognize him. That’s how it looks…

Just read this: “Though some people had predicted doom to befall against our country but they forgot that we had an experienced leader in state house” (Orikunda, 03.01.2022). Nobody with a sincere heart wants doom to befall on anyone or a Republic. However, what people have wanted is to change the leadership and have a peaceful transfer of power. Yes, that will be doom on the current regime and it’s leaders, but the troubles wouldn’t necessary trickle down on the republic. Only the elite and the current cronies who is eating of the plate of the experienced leader in the State House.

He continues: “After completion of the electoral process, the Electoral Commission in accordance with the law, declared President Yoweri Museveni as the winner of the elections and that was the best gift for us since as the movement we believe in the politics of continuity and ideology. The EC and the judiciary conducted the much anticipated swearing in and we have since then focused on service delivery and keeping the country safe for the citizens to work and develop themselves” (Orikunda, 03.01.2021).

Sometimes I wonder, if Museveni and the yellow leaders are able to cast spells or potions on their inner-circle, because this sort of reasoning boggles my mind. Like did the Deputy RDC even see how the elections was orchestrated? Didn’t he see the misuse of power, authorities and total deprecating results that came out of it?

It is like his living in another universe and didn’t see the open rigging. Didn’t catch the misuse of law-enforcement and the total disregard of the will of the people. Where there was no choice and the majority was prepared yet again for the National Resistance Movement (NRM). It is outrageous how quickly we are supposed to forget the arbitrary arrests, extra-judicial killings and misuse of power to get political gains. That’s what’s really frightening and how easily a crony is glossing over everything.

While also acting like it was a continuity and ideology that was the reason for the victory. When we know damn well that it was the guns and glamour. Not the policies or the pledges, manifesto or anything of that sort. Neither was the courts following due process and the Electoral Commission worked on command from “high above”. Therefore, the Deputy RDC lives in an alternative reality, which I cannot recognize.

He continues: “During the campaigns, the opposition went to people and said that the NRM was taking advantage of the lockdown to campaign for themselves and harass the opposition” (Orikunda, 03.01.2021).

The NRM and the President did. There was several of districts and candidates that could mobilize or travel to districts, as RDCs and others blocked them. Heck, authorities barricaded hotels and made it impossible for Bobi Wine to travel into districts. Which never happened to Museveni. He was allowed everywhere and there was never an issue in concern to COVID-19 when the Yellow brigade came to a town near you. The Coronavirus was only a problem when the opposition like Bobi Wine or Partick Oboi Amuriat was near you.

He continues: “Some couldn’t even allow a meeting of five people to take place, however our less caring opposition leaders wanted to go ahead and do rallies so that Ugandans get infected which is inhuman, the president had earlier said that anybody who mobilises crowds in the days of the pandemic is intentionally committing murder. Those who understood remained home, followed campaigns on television and when the voting day reached they voted candidates of their choice” (Orikunda, 03.01.2021).

Here he shows the point again. There is no proof of this and data suggesting this. Yes, COVID-19 and the coronavirus is spreading in public gatherings. However, there is no proof that the opposition spread it or made dangerous mass gatherings. There is no evidence that can be associated with that. Neither is there any relief, as the NRM held massive rallies and primaries with voting in lines, which is gatherings of sorts. Which is as bad as the spontaneous and planned outdoor stadium rallies, which the state blocked from the opposition due to COVID. So, the writer is coming with baseless allegations. While we know the blocking was intentional, as the NRM Primaries had bigger rallies and gatherings than the opposition was allowed to months after. Just to be real.

Secondly, the murder committed was by the authorities and the law-enforcement, which actually killed, abducted and arbitrary arrested opposition candidates, activists and polling agents for that matter. They are the ones that killed and took life. Heck, the authorities even killed civilians in the November Massacre in Kampala. There was murders on the campaign trail in Masaka. There was so many times people died and countless unsolved murders, which implicates state involvement. Therefore, the writer and Deputy RDC should be concerned about that. Not only implicating the opposition with unsubstantiated claims, which he has done recklessly.

The last piece here is really outrageous, as we know the television and radio was functioning fine for the NRM and the Yellow candidates. However, the opposition or independents barely had airtime. The RDCs and others blocked the opposition from local-radio shows and others during the campaign. So, it is not like the home-sitters could get a broad perspective from linear-based media. No, that was all Museven and all NRM with a dose of opposition, now and then.

He continues: “Even in the scaring days of the pandemic the government under the Stewardship of President has come up with new programs of getting Ugandans out of poverty, the NRM principal of social economic transformation will be realised. The Parish Model program which is coming soon with the pre -activities already done in several districts will see a number of focused Ugandans get out of poverty and create incomes for themselves and their families. The mentality of substance agriculture will soon end so that we can have food and also earn some Income. This among many were the promises of the Movement in the recent campaigns” (Orikunda, 03.01.2022).

This is selling the same schemes as it has done since the early 1990s and hoping for different result. The promise of wealth and middle-income country is something Museveni have done endlessly. However, his cows are drinking cleaner water than many citizens. That’s because the citizens isn’t his priority. The Emyooga, the Parish Model, the Operation Wealth Creation and such are just schemes to enrich the leaders and the ones in near proximity of the President. These things will fizzle out and become redundant. Since, there will be lack of results and Gen. Salim Selah needs a new hustle and new reason to live lavish in semi-luxurious hotel in Northern Uganda.

The NRM has promised the change of the economy and such since forever. Just as long as Museveni has been in office. Therefore, I don’t trust him a second. That he will bring changes to that in 2021. Not when he haven’t achieved it in the early 1990s or 2000s. This man has decade and tried every trick in book. So, he clearly don’t mind not to resolve it. If it had been dear to his heart and his pockets. It would have been in order like his farms or like the State House.

He ends with: “President Museveni has made tremendous achievements in 2021 and I think he is the hero of the year” (Orikunda, 03.01.2021).

I do not see the tremendous achievements, neither any positive results or signals. The debt-recycling, the deficits created by this government, the lack of revenue and the current huge patronage will only create more issues ahead. As the pay-roll, the massive local government budgets and the expenditure, which the state cannot carry. Plus the likes of the Deputy RDC who hasn’t a vital or important role. As there are many conflicting offices in each district competing to be relevant. Therefore, this state isn’t growing, but deteriorating. Make bills it cannot pay and the next generation is billed for it.

I don’t see how it did a good job or even achieved anything new. The Nile Bridge was fine, but that’s only one piece of infrastructure and they had to fix the gravel or bitumen on it twice. Nothing is done correctly at once. Just like not keeping Presidential Decrees and paying medical interns on time. Because, that’s how a hero is governing I suppose. While keeping dissidents incommunicado and not producing them in court in time. Since, that is modus operandi in the Republic, as we speak.

I cannot understand how he got to this and how he could write this piece a clear conscience. Is it that easy to lie and deceive when your part of the government? Is that how you get ahead in the NRM these days?

Because, if so… then it makes some sense. Even though that is sad and depressing. Peace.

Opinion: Is the NUP having their “defiance” moment?

“Mufumbiro made the statements amidst cheers from the crowd in the presence of the party secretary general David Lewis Rubongoya, the deputy president for Central Region and Leader of Opposition in Parliament Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba, and several party’s top notches including MPs. But Mpuuga hastily hit back in disapproval of Mufumbiro’s confrontational approach of removing Museveni from power, saying they have preferred a more strategic approach of capturing other than creating false hope to the highly enthusiastic support base that is yearning for change. Mpuuga indicated the current leadership is so committed to offering proper guidance and leadership of substance in the turbulent times when they are faced with a stubborn, ruthless, and a tough competitor capable of unleashing violence against his opponents” (URN – ‘NUP split over approach to dislodge Museveni’ 29.12.2021, The Observer). 

In today’s The Observer there is reported that the leaders within National Unity Platform (NUP) have different ideas on how to move forward, as the final end-game and goal of the party is to remove a dictator. However, the objectives are agreed upon, the way of which is to work and succeed seems to differ. That is very clear. 

Mufubiro and Mpuuga clearly disagree, in such a way of which the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) had two separate camps or fractions at one point. The FDC was split between the “defiance” and the “pragmatic” approach. The same seems to happen within the NUP as well. That is just reasonable, as the growing pains and the amount of politicians associating with the NUP. Everyone wouldn’t agree upon everything and neither have the same perspective. If a party is real and people have ideals or dogma behind their actions. Then you will have heated arguments and discussions to achieve the same objective goal or achievement for that matter. Therefore, no one should cry havoc and say the party is over. 

What is happening here is all natural and it makes sense. That’s why the FDC in some ways split between the ones following “Defiance” and the ones who were pragmatic, joining the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT). So, what we are seeing here has happened before… 

What we also should know is that the Mpuuga has been on the front-line since the time’s of Action4Change and Walk to Work. So, it is not like he has tasted rebellion and been on the barricades fighting. He knows the costs and paid the price of being arrested for his political activism. Therefore, when others would feel the same within his party. The Leader of Opposition should understand and want to resolve with actions. That the LoP speaks of strategic ways seems to be a sophisticated way of saying there are other means than what Mufubiro promotes right now. 

When I was reading the article and the arguments between the party leaders of NUP. I felt a moment of nostalgia, as the NUP is now going into the same issues of which the FDC did. Instead, of having one unified way forward. There are internal squabbles and talks about how to move and operate. The NUP has decide and show resilience, unless they prefer being part of this system and be a token opposition to the dictatorship. Sooner or later they might be washed-up as Mao and the Democratic Party (DP). Because, if they are just supposed to negotiate and strategically move. Then they are just using time and spending time in office, unless he means more industrial strikes, civil disobedience and coordinated riots. Alas, there is nothing of that in the talks of Mpuuga. Which could mean that they are supposed to revolutionize the system from within. 

If Mpuuga really believes that works… then he has not followed the FDC and the pragmatic members of that party. Since, they didn’t get rid of or had a peaceful transition because they joined IPOD or was part of the multi-party elections. No, it has just been more of the same and the FDC haven’t toppled the President. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) is in full cruise control and has nothing to fear. Especially, if Mpuuga is becoming a knock-off Muntu. If that happens… then the NRM and Museveni will linger on with no trouble and only some ceremonial disobedience, which is as powerful as mosquitoes sucking for blood. Yes, they can do it and bite. However, they will never suck enough or do damage to hurt the system they are sucking from. Peace.  

Opinion: Elections in the Republic under Museveni is run like an Casino

If the Kayunga District By-Election results proves what some of us has been saying. It proves that the state machinery and the electoral commission is working in tandem. The state and the State House has all the advantages in a race. The state agencies and authorities are all coinciding with the memos, decrees and the whims of the “high above”. That’s why elections aren’t open, independent or fair. Free and fair elections is a myth here and it’s all rigged to fit the Presidency.

Let’s be clear, here is unwritten rule that you don’t challenge Museveni and expect to win. He might act like it is a fair fight or an open race. The President allows a few challengers, but they will not have the same spotlight, the access to media or even ability to campaign like him. They will be violated, silenced and stopped from doing their ordinary politicking. While the President can canvass, campaign and be on every single media house any part of the day. Meanwhile, his authorities, regional leaders and whatnot blocks the main opponent from doing the same. They are blocking the venues and making the assembly illegal even during election road-map, which is just made to mask the proposed “election period” for everyone.

This has been occurring for so long. This didn’t only happen in 2016 or in the General Elections in 2021. There been so many By-Elections hit by this and we can surely go back to 1996 and forward to know. Anyone who has had a legit campaign and popularity have suffered by the hands of the state. These folks have been called any name of the book and been blocked for “safety” reasons. The state have blossomed into a war-machine, using the military and police to enforce the will of one man. That’s why they have no real chance of winning or ability to do so. The state has made it impossible, as the parties can only convene in the headquarters in Kampala and they are blocked from operating nationwide. Only the ruling regime can be able to do so and freely. That party will not have issues with primaries or anything. They are allowed and nothing will be illegal. While the opposition cannot even open a party office in up-country without meeting security agencies and have arrests as well.

That’s why the General Elections and Elections in general in Uganda is run like Casino. The state and the NRM is the HOUSE. In concern to a Casino, the house never loose. Yes, it allows some to win and make them hooked. They allow some big prices get taken, as it is a hook to get you tricked into the system. Alas, the House is rigged to win. It might give some the idea that they can win. Nevertheless, the whole race and the crab-table is rigged for the House to profit. You can play blackjack, poker or whatnot. Whatever game you play… the Casino will win and have profits from it all. If it didn’t it wouldn’t operate or roll out the games.

The Casino during Museveni have given away some prices and illusions of victories for the opposition. However, the whole elections are made in a manner of which he wins. Not only does he win, but the NRM will secure the majority across the board. The opposition will not able to field candidates or even hold primaries to have flag-bearers in newly minted districts. Neither does they have the cash to pay to stand as a candidate. While the state has endless funds and the state machinery behind it. This is why the opponents can have great cards on its hands, but it will not matter, because you might win one round… nevertheless the next race will be bloody. There will be no return and the Casino will ensure to get returns on every investment and game. Therefore, the opposition is only being another player, but a sucker who will inevitably loose.

Museveni and his Casino is opening the tables, but the dealer and everyone else knows the NRM will win in the end. The players might believe they have a shot and get some prices. However, they hope the opponent continues to play and will loose all the coins he had. Maybe even ruin their careers and have to borrow from loan-sharks to repay the Casino it’s debt. That’s where Museveni can come in and swoop the opposition candidate from the other parties. In manners of paying off their debts and make them loyal to him. This is what he has done and how he rigs it.

So, never expect Museveni or the Casino to let anyone really win. He only does to make it look like the illusion it is. That is the reality here and it’s tragic. Peace.