Opinion: Bobi Wine’s ideal is commendable, but his warning to Mzee will not be followed

Today, the People Power Movement hold a Presser in the home of Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine in Kyadondo East, Wakiso District. This is not the first time he has held a press conference there. That is just the way things are in the Republic. Today’s Presser is an answer to the “Scientific” elections in the revised road map for the General Elections in 2021.

We know Bobi Wine is a fierce speaker and he proven that yet again today:

Museveni, like all dictators before him, is determined to keep in power at any cost. He does not care what happens to the people of Uganda, as long as he is in State House! Fellow Ugandans, Museveni is at it again. He recently met with the Electoral Commission and gave them orders to organize what he called a scientific election. Using the coronavirus as an excuse, he is banning public rallies and other aspects of an election as we know them! No Ugandan should be fooled into believing that Museveni is doing this for the safety of Ugandans. As we speak now, most urban places are filled with people going about their usual business uninterrupted. No social distancing, no nothing. If anyone has any doubts, please visit Kikuubo, or any other urban place. Therefore Museveni and the Electoral Commission should not take Ugandans for fools” (Bobi Wine, 22.06.2020).

What he said here is the truth. Bobi Wine just said what’s needed to be said. Many wouldn’t dare saying this and with his platform he still does it. Plenty of more people will listen, because he said it. Kizza Besigye has said similar before, in other instances, but now that Bobi Wine says it. It might have more flair to it. As it yet another leader of the opposition who sees it.

But let me use this opportunity to put President Museveni on notice. You might have forgotten what you said in 1980 but we have not forgotten. On the eve of the 1980 election, you, Museveni, put Obote on notice. You said that if he rigged that election, you would go to the bush and fight against him. We have come to that point yet again. We are telling you that you either organize a free and fair election or step down peacefully, but if you continue provoking the patience of the people of Uganda, they will rise up against you and you will end up in the dustbin of history like your friend Ghadafi, like your friend Mobutu and like your friend Omar El Bashir” (Bobi Wine, 22.06.2020).

Here is revisiting history, a history that the President has been proud of and repeated so that all generations and walks of life knows. The President cannot hide that. Museveni is so proud of how he got to power and all the people he finessed to get there. We all know this, as it has been blasted for years and years to the public. He has even walked twice in the steps of the bush-war to celebrate the civil war he was the victor of back-in-the-day.

Bobi Wine’s notice is noble idea. It is righteous step. However, there is no way in hell that Museveni will hold a free and fair elections. President Museveni wouldn’t win in a free and fair election. He knows this and the whole Republic knows this. That is why he has total control of the Electoral Commission and all other authorities needed to own the state.

The opposition are right and justified to ask for a free and fair election. Anyone who takes a stand and wants to challenge for public office should be able to do so. Where everyone has the same opportunity for everyone. Where everyone has the same difficulties and everyone who becomes a candidate can win and can challenge the results without interference in the elections. However, that is not how its in the republic where the state and the incumbents of the government has an upperhand with resources and control of the Electoral Commission.

Bobi Wine and everyone else is allowed to say their grievances towards this system. A system built for Museveni and his cadres. The 2021 election will not differ from 2016, 2011, 2006, 2001 and 1996. All of these has been rigged, just like they have tried to do with every single by-election too. This is not news, but a reality that the President has created over the years.

The challenge is healthy, the challenge is needed, but hopefully not just words. But a STERN WARNING about what Bobi Wine and the United Forces for Change (UFC) will deliver. I don’t believe a second that the National Resistance Movement or the President will not rig these up-coming election. That would be a lie. A big FAT lie. This regime knows only how to win by pre-fixing the results to their advantage. To say otherwise is naive and stupid.

Bobi Wine did the right thing, but the state will not steer the wheel differently. For the simple reason: They are not willing to loose, because this is all they have. Peace.

Digital Campaigning: Expect opposition candidates to be blocked from the air-waves during the campaigns…

The Electoral Commission released the Road Map for the General Elections of 2021 today. This is so everyone involved, every stakeholder and party can adjust their programs. They can work towards the deadlines, deliver their nominated candidates and prepare for impact. We can all assume this is done for some transparency. However, there been no legislation nor any changes of substance since the 2016 General Elections. So expect another rigged race and outcome, which is already pre-fixed by the buddies within the EC.

To think otherwise in 2020 is naive and deluded. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) will own the Parliament, will hold the stranglehold on the Presidency and will only give breadcrumbs to the Opposition. That is what it does to show sympathy and also prove to donors that it has some sort of democracy. Even when all know it isn’t real and there are no level playing-field.

The Road Map today was striking and COVID-19 based, as the EC is preparing for digitally campaigning for all the parties involved. The Electoral Commission stated today this: “Mass rallies will not be allowed but campaigns will be conducted mainly through media” (EC, 16.06.2020).

With this in mind, the candidates on various of levels has a short span of time to hit the airwaves, online outlets and on the TV screens. This is coming as the state has enforced the OTT Tax and made it expensive to be on social media. The state also known for blocking opposition leaders to on the local radios. If they are sincere in this election. They will open up the radios, let the opposition candidates have conversations and appeal to the public through there. As the rural areas isn’t fully operative with internet to every village and home. There are not even electricity to every home. That is why this strategy will backfire and someone will not get the whole gist from all candidates.

We can also expect that the President and the NRM blocks the airwaves for the times of the speeches of the President. Especially in the time frame of the digitally campaigns. That is just inevitable. He will block Besigye and Bobi Wine from speaking out at the same time. He will not accept that. That is hurting his fragile ego.

There are just something we can anticipate. There will be self-made sessions on Facebook and Live Taping, which is not needed with any media house. However, if the people want to reach far and wide. Than they need to hit the airwaves, needs to be on the TV stations and be able to speak across the platforms. We have seen in the past that the Uganda Communication Commission has sanctioned Radios, TV stations for having Bobi Wine on. They have also blocked Besigye, even RDCs has blocked Besigye for appearing on Radio shows. So, we anticipate a hurdle and destructive patterns here.

The system and control from high above will be visible here. I don’t expect it to really change. However, they should if they want it to look good. I expect arrests, house-arrests and other things. Just as the opposition are trying to travel to radio stations and such. That is just the sad reality Also expect police to block stations and stop from transmitting. This is just something that will appear. Later the UCC and RDC will have an excuse and do it for “safety”. Even if the Opposition is supposed to be allowed on the airwaves. While the NRM candidates and Flag-Bearers can do whatever they feel.

This is just my imagination, but I don’t think its far fetched from the possibly reality in a few months time. Unless, they suddenly opens for rallies and then venues will be closed. Where the Opposition will be chased by the authorities and sometimes end behind bars. Peace.

Another Opposition Coalition (UFC) to beat Mzee: Will it work this time?

There was once upon a time the Inter-Party Cooperation (IPC) for the 2011. This was a coalition of six parties, while three parties later had a fall out with it and its choices. Therefore, the Democratic Party (DP), Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and Social Democratic Party (SDP) both went out and ran on their own. DP and UPC wanted to run their own Presidential Candidates, while SDP was furious that the mayoral choice for Kampala. We know that this didn’t work at this General Election. The coalition in the end was a mix of Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Conservative Party and Justice Forum (JEEMA).

For the 2016 General Election there was another Opposition Coalition in play. This was the Democratic Alliance (TDA), which consisted of various of opposition parties too. However, here the parties that pulled out of it was the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) to field their own Presidential Candidate. The ones remaining was the pressure group Go Forward (Amama Mbabazi), Pressure for National Unity (PNU) Gilbert Bukenya, Democratic Party (DP), Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and Justice Forum (JEEMA). We see here that DP and UPC didn’t ditch it, as Norbert Mao couldn’t run and James Akena didn’t run for the Presidency this time. Because these parties challenged with Mao (DP) in 2011 and Olara Otunnu (UPC), but this round they couldn’t or wasn’t fit. That is why they supported the candidacy of Amama Mbabazi (Go Forward). We know that Amama and the TDA flame fizzled out quickly.

So, when I heard today that the Pressure Group People’s Power Movement (PPM), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Justice Forum (JEEMA), Truth and Justice (TJ), Conservative Party (CP), Democratic Party (DP) and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) are all involved in the United Forces for Change (UFC) for the 2021 General Elections.

The main leaders this time is Dr. Kizza Besigye (FDC) and Robert Kyagulanyi (PPM). Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) Mugisha Muntu has opted out and at this time his right not to join. His reasons are clear, but it’s a bit funny. Because he had no issues with joining the Special Utility Vehicle (SUV) of the Democratic Party (DP) and the union of similar parties. So, in this regard it might be spite, because he would still be in the shadow of former leader and party president of the FDC. That is just how it looks from the outside looking in. When leaders from all the other opposition parties are joining. Not that its shocking, but don’t expect everyone to join the ride.

Expect the DP to fall out, as Mao has grudges with Besigye. JEEMA, TJ and CP will be on the ride the whole time. They only gain positives by it and have a bigger platform during the election cycle. However, with the past history. The grinding questions of how close the UPC is to the NRM. There will only be fringes of the party to join the UFC. Akena will not ditch the money train of the NRM Alliance to be part of UFC. Also with all the things Mao has done behind the scenes, I don’t expect him to run behind Besigye and Bobi Wine. His already a bit mad at Besigye for some unfortunate reason. So, we can only imagine that he will ditch out here for the DP Block and whatever he calls it. So, I anticipate the UPC and DP to tell its members to come home. If they don’t than they are betraying their parties. That is why Lukwago is a TJ and not a DP anymore.

Let me clear after all that said: Yes, I want change, but if you cannot see a pattern here. These platforms, these coalitions aren’t making it. There is a reason there is a need for many challengers. The strength, their vision and their manifestos comes out and can change things up. To beat the NRM by the polls, by an election is futile. That has been proven since 1986. Not because of lack of trying. Not because there haven’t candidates suitable or popular to beat Museveni. No, because there haven’t been the will to give way for a peaceful transition. Museveni will not loose now either. He will rig the election into oblivion. No matter what the opposition throws at it, the results will be about the same. Just different faces, unless they want to show civil disobedience and actually attack the heart of the government. Break it down to its knees and ensure its downfall. That will cost, but through the polls. I can assure you, nothing will happen. The status quo continues and the same party reign supreme. They got the guns and the authorities to send the others packing.

The UFC will have the same fate as IPC and TDA. Maybe more finesse behind Bobi Wine than a insider and friendly NRMer in Amama. Still, the UFC will only have a fools hope. Just like Frodo in the Lord of the Rings. As Gandalf said in ‘The Return of the King’:

Tell me,’ he said, ‘is there any hope? For Frodo, I mean; or at least mostly for Frodo.’ Gandalf put his hand on Pippin’s head. ‘There never was much hope,’ he answered. ‘Just a fool’s hope, as I have been told. And when I heard of Cirith Ungol–‘ He broke off and strode to the window, as if his eyes could pierce the night in the East. ‘Cirith Ungol!’ he muttered. ‘Why that way, I wonder?’ He turned. ‘Just now, Pippin, my heart almost failed me, hearing that name. And yet in truth I believe that the news that Faramir brings has some hope in it. For it seems clear that the Enemy has opened his war at last and made the first move when Frodo was still free. So now for many days he will have his eye turned this way and that, away from his own land. And yet, Pippin, I feel from afar his haste and fear. He has begun sooner than he would. Something has happened to stir him.”- J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King

In the same way I look at this UFC. Not because I don’t want the junta, the militarized government and the oppressors out the Republic and into a proper civilian government. I want all of that to happen. The injustice has been going on for far too long. However, using similar tricks to beat the same dragon. I doubt it will have affect. Even if it has a new potential leader and could be the Frodo who gets the ring to Mount Doom to change history of Middle Earth to break the power of Sauron and Mordor. Still, that is a fools errand to believe that, even if the hope is there. Just like it was plenty of times with Besigye.

We need the hope and have fate that someone will bring the ring to Mount Doom. However, is this the team and the pacifier to stop the NRM? I don’t have the answer… I really don’t, but I just want them to challenge the authorities head-on and not play games that has been fought before. The names changes, but the end game stays the same.

Bobi Wine is maybe Frodo here, but that is only a lucky guess. Then Besigye is his Samwise Gamgee. But we don’t know that and Sauron continues to deploy his troops and ensure that no one gets unscratched by his army of Orcs. Right? You get the drill?

I don’t have the answers, but I just feel we are repeating history without crossing the authorities with enough power and finesse. We are doing the same old thing and getting nowhere. Stalling awaiting for the lucky brother to find the Ring in the river and get turned into Gollum. Instead of being a Frodo going into a journey, which will change everything, but will also cost. Peace.

Opinion: Section 8 of POMA is Null- and Void, what does that mean?

Well, now the Constitutional Court came today with a striking judgment. That the Section 8 of the Public Order Management Act of 2013 is unconstitutional. Section 8 of the POMA is very clear. That gives the powers to officers and give the police the authority to block any meeting. It also gives the powers to the Police to disperse a meeting. Also, finally the sub-section also issues the officers in question the powers to assess if a person is disobeying the law or unlawfully assembles. Which makes that person liable for sentencing according to the Penal Code section 117.

Therefore, today’s judgment is vital, as the Police Force by definition now doesn’t have the authority to block any gathering. Neither disperse it or issue an order to stop the public from participate in any public meeting/gathering. This here is an direct consequence of the judgment today.

We knew this law was draconian. The whole law isn’t null and void, just one part of it, but it takes away the powers to enforce it. The Police Force, the authorities is limited by this. This law has banned concerts, public gatherings, consultation meetings, anniversary rallies, opening of political party offices and so fourth. The state has given all sorts of orders and usage of the law to an extent, where the opposition is futile. They couldn’t conduct either internal party organizations nor actually try to gain new followers, since the state stopped it or never allowed them to publicly to gather in the first place.

This law was deemed the Anti-Besigye Act, ABA, the act against Besigye and his political effort to undermine the regime. This came after the Walk to Work. Now, the opposition has one an important battle in the Courts.

There was on judge who didn’t see it like this, that was Stephen Musota. Remember that man, because he stated this, he was the one voting in favour of Section 8 of POMA. Because, there was 4-1 and therefore, it was null and void. However, Stephen stated this: “The limits are now cast in stone and are no longer at the whims or imagination of the Inspector General of Police or his authorized officers”. That is why the whims of the IGP shouldn’t be the factor to allow people to assemble or not. This is why its unconstitutional, which is stated by the other judges on this matter.

What I am suspecting will happen is that the National Resistance Movement will revise and amend this bill. To ensure they have the powers to stop meetings and such before the General Elections 2021. They have had the good need of this bill for years. This will not go away without a blast. I don’t believe the NRM will concede and give way that easily. Not when the rise of Bobi Wine and Besigye is now allowed and cannot be stopped. That is what the NRM worried about and will find new ways to silence it. Especially, when the Police Force has been preoccupied with this partisan politicking for years. Peace.

Opinion: Norbert Mao is on a mission of self-destruction

Those rebel party members are survival seekers who only intend to achieve re-election and maintain a fertile salary in the upcoming Parliament. DP was the first to give Bobi Wine the audience when the others were not sure of what to do. We gave him space starting with the reunion conference but they started saying that I am a sadist and I pity those masqueraders. That’s why I was saying that am sorry for the young man because the crippling plants want to use him. For us in DP we say that we have been pushing Museveni like a car for 35 years but it has refused to start and when a young man like Bobi Wine come we should give him some space”Norbert Mao on the 17h March 2020

It’s like the President of the Democratic Party (DP) Norbert Mao who has had two terms and preparing the party for the General Election of 2021. His supposed to get elected for his third term and also run for office himself. However, he has not run a smooth operation.

Mao is now playing this the wrong way. He tried to play Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine for clout himself. He tried to be associated and work with the People Power Movement (PPM) for extended popularity. Its not like Mao and the DP haven’t earned on it and trying to act like they have invested in it too.

With that regard, they didn’t create the PPM, they were a part of it, but it was Bobi Wine and his associates who started it. They initiated this, the DP would surely preferred that PPM and Bobi Wine participated in the Special Purpose Vehicle and the DP Block. That is because, even Bobi Wine can see a dead fish floating in the water.

Mao will not say it, but he wants to be relevant and be vibrant. That is why his working with Mugisha Muntu, all the other briefcase parties and whatever it takes to look significant. This is why he needed and used Bobi Wine. Now, with time he see that it backfires. The swift of loyalty isn’t following him, but instead follows Bobi Wine. That is hurting Mao. Making him look foolish.

That he attack the ones who now aspire to follow Bobi Wine is now self-serving. However, wasn’t it the same when you invited him and trying to fish him into the fold in the first place? Wasn’t that your game drive not going well?

Your aim and goals wasn’t that Noble, neither was you doing charity. Neither, do I believe it would be sincere, if your acting its like that. Which your doing now by all means. Bobi Wine was building and also showing his true face to the republic. As you invited him. Now your taking credit, but also blaming your own for starting to follow him. As they see more in him, than they see in you.

Mao, that is surely hurting your pride and your ethos. It hurts your being and therefore, your now doing this and telling this. What is your problem is that you open the gate, but doesn’t want to participate now that the game is happening. You want people to still follow suit…

That is a mission … of self-destruct. Self destruction is clearly the memo and the message his sending. If he had these issues with People Power and Bobi Wine in the first place. Why inviting him and clearing him for your events? Why even entertain him?

However, you did and willingly. You let your people participate and be apart of the movement. Bobi Wine is just a grenade for you. He exploded in your face and you wasn’t prepared for the explosion. You should have seen that you took out the splint, but you forgot that, apparently. KA-BOOOM!. Peace.

Opinion: Nangalama forgets the grim reaper

There are one of those days, when you let your anger strike you too hard and you write something in an infuriating state. Where you mind boggles the facts and deeper understanding of the things. What the Ugandan blogger based in Canada did was very easy microwaving the message without considering the implications of it. Like, the Opposition should react, instead she said it shouldn’t campaign or shouldn’t even try create change. If she got her will, the demolition of opposition would be fixed. Mzee, Bosco or Mr. Sunday would be very happy, because people listened to Nangalama. They put down their swords and became silent like graves. 

Here is an out-take from Red Pepper, which has resurfaced on social media:

Ugandans should be demanding from their opposition leaders why their kids are being killed. Opposition leaders should not be taking the killings as political capital. They should suspend all their rallies, consultations and kwekalakasa to demand justice for the dead and imprisoned. You surely do not think we have opposition in Uganda. Here is the BIG News, there is no opposition in Uganda” (Martha Leah Nangalama – ‘People Power Movement Should Not Use Death for Cheap Political Capital’ 29.02.2020).

All of this happens because People Power Movement (PPM) are seeing their activists killed and associates being murdered. She is initially stating that Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine is wrong and doing it badly.

As she started her piece like this: “Bobi Wine should sack his media team and hire a professional.  Capitalizing on the death of two young people is not my cup of tea. Those two kids are in the same age group as my kids so I fly to Toronto, Canada to capitalize on deaths!! With a poster like this. Who is gonna raise their kids? The opposition needs to learn from Gen. Mugisha Muntu” (Martha Leah Nangalama – ‘People Power Movement Should Not Use Death for Cheap Political Capital’ 29.02.2020).

It is like this have never been done before, all political movements has had their martyrs, especially the ones who fought against a junta or a miltiary dictatorship. Because, the junta will use their force, because they have no other methods of control of dissidents. That is why the opposition is so split and attacked by the authorities. All means are used against them, even killing by trying to stop the opposition from gathering or even assemble in public. This is something Nangalama knows, but doesn’t care to dig into. Maybe, that isn’t important to her?

She just want friend sheep like Mugisha Muntu, whose loved by the NRM and whose so pragmatic, that he cannot even pass a street without asking authorization by the local RDC. That is how it seems. This from the lady from ‘Peril of Africa’, the lady who always goes hard. However, here she went a bit left. Especially, if she yearns for change or more of the same?

It is like she wrote in rage, I understand and we both agree. That no one should die because of politics. Each life taken is one to much. However, the brutal reality is that the army, all security agencies and so-on use all means to shut-down the opposition. They know everything, because the opposition needs to notify and spell out their activity to the authorities. Therefore, they got no way to hide or escape the armed forces, either if they like it or not.

In that reality. She wants a compromised leader, a leader who doesn’t dare the authorities nor the structure itself. A man whose not honest in his approach to his start-up party Alliance of National Transformation (ANT). She accepts this, because, she wants that easy-picking approach. Not even use the ills against you. However, Muntu like anyone else uses burials and funerals as rally grounds for political messages, but that is cool right?

I understand her frustration, as the dead is named and put on like martyrs. No one wants to have that. No movement wants that, but when your fighting the powers to be with all their forces. They use all means to stay in power. They are not redeeming or a forgiving organization. No, they come with bullets, tear-gas and prison. This she knows, but wants them to silent and not speak up about it.

Only lay-down and die. Not speak out, not address it or continue. She wants suspensions and not civil disobedience. If you think that works, then you will give life to the Movement for a few more decades and a Muhoozi Presidency when Yoweri “calls it a day”. Because, why fight them or undress them at all?

When you want men like Muntu? Why even use time to blog or speak of the ills of society? Only when it doesn’t cost? Should the opposition suspend it all and really die? In your eyes, they are dead anyway?

I am sure Kizza Besigye and POA will disagree with that. The same will Bobi Wine, who you disagree with. There are opposition, but nearly impossible to do party work or assemble. If they do so, there is costs, there is pain and suffering. Unless, people stand up against that. The cycle of violence, arrests and misuse of power will continue. However, the stance in her piece. Isn’t creating anything positive. It is neither showing any will of stopping of it, but instead giving ways to the authorities who is sanctions this actions towards the youths who dies for their political affiliation.

Even if I believe it comes from a true place, that Nangalama means well. It doesn’t serve anyone. Except for the ANT and Muntu. Who easily speaks with everyone, but is of no concern to the State House. That is why his out there. However, the ones who is a of a concern and who creates fire is dismissed and said to lay their tools down.

How will that generate change? It will not, especially, if the ones whose new and who has the youth behind them. Suddenly, supposed to suspend their actions and be silent. Not even try to be relevant. That is reality of what she wrote. Because, of the deaths and the usage in public. The PPM and Bobi Wine should lay their tools down and not do anything.

With that sort of thinking, Bobi Wine is never winning. It is just the matter of which ways he looses. He looses if he acts and looses if he stands down. He cannot even participate without someone saying his actions are wrong.

Wonder if Nangalama thought of that? I didn’t think so. Peace.

Opinion: Matsiko, it would have been better if you remained silent…

Here we go again; Dan Matsiko of NFT (New Form of Thinking) Uganda is at it again. This time really out of line with both the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), which his supposed to be part off and also People Power Movement head Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine. The attempt to sway opinion and dropping a statement on Facebook. Only shows his intent, which isn’t for the good, but for his own pockets.

Why do I say that? This man remains silent and dubiously away in the times of hardships. His gone missing, nowhere to be found, but when Campaign season hits the fan. His suddenly everywhere and trying to inject himself to the public sphere. Like his a phenomenon worth following. That’s why his insulting Besigye and Bobi Wine, also POA while his at it. Just take a look at this mess.

Matsiko Statement:

Though NFT Uganda was privy to Muntu ‘s fall at FDC we didn’t takeup the FDC headquarters, supporters of Kizza Besigye shared the spoils amongst themselves. Went public chest thumping forgetting their victory was partly engineered by other two party presidential candidates who criss – crossed the country decampaigning Mugisha Muntu” (…) “Our presidential bid in 2020 -2021 is a vote of no confidence in the Amuriat run FDC, Besigye controlled FDC headquarters and Katonga group and above all to the entire class members of 1986, Museveni, Muntu and Tumukunde are all part of the class and mere pretenders in the politics of Uganda. We don’t expect much from Robert Kyagulanyi because he was part of IGP Kale Kayihura’s brutality machinery in the Uganda police force” (Dan Matsiko – Special Update, 06.03.2020).

Bobi Wine statement after the sacking of Kayihura:

Unfortunately, it seems he wants to hold on until he too is showed the exit door, and that day will surely come. I am sure Kayihura didn’t think he would wake up sacked and Ugandans celebrating his exit. Another thing here is that unfortunately these people never learn. President Museveni has mastered the art of using them and dropping them when they have served his purpose but also turned themselves against the population. No one has harassed the opposition and worked hard to entrench this dictatorship than Kayihura. Today, after serving the purpose and turning himself into possibly one of the most hated Ugandans, he has been dropped” (Bobi Wine, 05.03.2018).

Why I am dropping this today, because of his reckless statement. That will be shared on various of social media groups and finally end up shared on WhatsApp. This is why it needs to be dismissed as hogwash. His insinuating things and massaging his message in a fashion that is disrespectful. Not only to Besigye and Bobi Wnie, but also to everyone involved in the manners.

When Matsiko says he has a presidential bid, he said the same in 2016, but didn’t stand up for the bill or even run. People was actually waiting for the man to be certified and ready to run. Something he never did. Therefore, his really brave now in 2020 speaking like a big-shot, when he hasn’t even proven his paperwork with the Electoral Commission like other Presidential aspirants.

Secondly and last. His lies about Bobi Wine is just outrages. It is insincere and ill minded. The same about his attempt to discredit Besigye, a man whose taken the cost to stand up against the junta and the dictatorship, more than anyone and more than Matsiko could ever pull off. Therefore, Dan, back-off, be silent and shut-up. Unless, you got something positive or constructive to do. Because, this is not it. Peace.

Opinion: The key ingredients to why burials have become political

There are usually some components in play when things change. There are certain stimuli or even ingredients that changes the flavour. It could be to much salt, pepper or even chilli. Even the idea of putting some sugar or milk like liquid in the sauce and the whole flavour profile changes.

The same way the political landscape changes. It does so over time. The main reason is that the state, the authorities and the ones in-charge are making other ways of gathering or assembling possible. There are reasons why the main big speeches and meeting places for opposition leaders in the republic is at burials or vigils of deceased activists and forefathers of political dynasties. That’s because the state barres them from gathering with consultation meetings, rallies or even celebrate their anniversaries. Even opening up local offices and spaces for building up the party can be shut-down by the authorities. There is no political event of the opposition without the police, the soldiers or other outfits to silent them.

What is even more striking is that the activists, the youth and the ones that gather around these consultations, meetings and such. Are the ones that is taken down and out. The police, LDUs, Crime Preventers and whatnot has assaulted, arrested, detained and killed civilians in the mercy to stop opposition leaders from “inciting violence”. Instead they are using violence to disperse and stop the public to assemble.

Because of this, the politicians, if they want to have any place to speak to strangers. They are not allowed to rally, meetings or even operate as a party. They use the Public Order and Management Act (POMA) and the Penal Code. Where there are pieces of legislations that is used to stop and measure the opposition. However, the same legislation seems to never be used to the governing party nor its associates. That is why they operate like a “normal party”, even if they have the sole-candidacy sickness, which has given the whole party a Stockholm syndrome as hostages under one man and his vision.

With all of this in mind. It is not strange, that the oppositions are using their best speeches, their best political work at burials and funerals. As this is the one moment, which the police force will not attend and block. The authorities will not throw tear-gas and close of a church or public space, as the casket and undertakers in attendance.

It is easy to understand this and why it turns this way. This is because of the state and their actions. That makes it the only path to generate support and attendance without fear of repercussions. That is why opposition leaders uses those gatherings for this. Because they can and they will.

It is not fair that it is this way, but as long as the path is made while walking along it. There will more functions used like this. Expect weddings and others to become it as well. Since, there is so narrow avenues and limited space. That is why burials and funerals are the place of political messages get across. It is not intended like that, but the orders from high above demands that. Peace.

Opinion: Mao’s chasing his own butterfly

I’m on the pursuit of happiness

I know everything that shine ain’t always gold

I’ll be fine once I get it

I’ll be good” (Kid Cudi – ‘Pursuit of Happiness (Nightmare)’ 15.09.2009).

It sounds like fiction that Democratic Party President Norbert Mao, which is in an internal fracas. A man whose excluded part of his party and is entangled in an internal battle over whose being the Presidential Flag-bearer of the party.

This was the report by NBS Television yesterday:

The antagonistic group against Norbert Mao’s decision to dismiss Sulaiman Kidandala as the National Organizing Secretary, has revealed that the party’s National Council resolved to support Kyagulanyi, a decision that has been rejected by Mao” (NBS Television, 15.02.2020).

Now, today the man writes this on Facebook:

The only way to be happy is to be happy. That is a state of mind within your control whatever you are doing. It doesn’t require a new Ferrari or an extension to your dangly bits. Happiness is not a pursuing, it is a being. The harder you chase it, the further you push it away. It can be likened to chasing a butterfly. The more desperately you charge at it, the more it will elude you. But if you stop trying so hard, lay down on the grass and relax, there is a chance it will just come and land on your shoulder” (Norbert Mao – ‘On Happiness’ 16.02.2020).

It is like the intellectual Mao doesn’t understand the predicament his in. Like he doesn’t get the hardships of what his doing. Instead of acting sincere, his trying to rebuild the party around himself. As he anticipate to be Party President for another term.

Mao shouldn’t act this way within the Internal Party wrangle. Last round he lost hard and went after the butterfly called Amama Mbabazi and the Democratic Alliance (TDA). Before that he ran on his own ticket and didn’t actually succeed on that one either. However, that was first round and total failure in the second. Then thinking he will be a booming star in the third is a bit far-fetched isn’t it?

Mao should wonder why his where his at and why the party is so split. Not only has he let this happen with fractions working directly with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and even becoming cabinet members. While some DP has become part of the People’s Government and working directly with dr. Kizza Besigye. Thirdly, some has associated them with Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine and the People Power Movement. Which is now splitting the party.

We can really imagine that Mao could be happy about being second fiddle to Bobi Wine. That someone like him took his way. Even if by the Lords of Mercy would even grant Mao an MP slot in Gulu. He should praise the Gods for that alone. However, his always aimed at the stars and the moons, even if he never had space shuttle to get there.

Now, we are seeing the sounds of happiness from him. Even if we know it is a nightmare. Because, it shows his double standard. Mbabazi was fine and dandy, but Bobi Wine is not. Maybe because he was barred from entering in 2016 and can now in 2021. Nevertheless, it seems strange, as it was not like Mao did magic in 2011. This from the man complaining that Besigye is a serial loser and Mao haven’t even won pop-tarts in his hey-day.

Mao become the DP President and he had been the Guild President at Makerere University, but that doesn’t deem him fit for the Presidency. Neither does he have the popularity to even get there. The party haven’t been built better under him, neither proved it value in the opposition. Unless, you count the amount of times Mao has been sitting on NBS Frontline. Than, you can say his winning. Also, the amount of times the papers publishes his writings.

With all of this in mind. Should Mao be happy? No. He should work like crazy, salvage whatever he can. Because its not like he got the golden goose. Not like he got the loyal standing or stature. Mao might have a few cronies around him and some central leadership backing him blindly. However, this will not save him. As the waves are turning and his importance isn’t all that.

Besigye and Bobi Wine has more going for them. Mao might not like that, but if his running against them. He will look like the knock-off Coca-Cola, looking like coke, but tasting like watered down coca-cola candy with fizz. He might like that, but the public prefer the real deal over the knock-off.

Mao will not be happy about that, but that is the reality. Maybe, he can quote someone else philosophical book and call it a night. Peace.

Opinion: A lot of flair, but very little substance in Mao

It is about that time. The Democratic Party internal elections ahead of delegations conference before the General Elections of 2021. Just like it was in 2010, 2015 and now in 2020. This happens every five years. Nobert Mao is on his second term and near the end of it. He was first elected to it in 2010. If elected again, it would be his third term as Party President. 

Over the years his stance and his significance has dwindled. Even other voices in the party matter more. Even more of his own cadres has been associated either with the NRM or with Besigye. The DP party is more split than ever before. This being MPs whose even have chosen to be by Bobi Wine and the People Power Movement. Meaning, the alliances is individually picked.

The DP Party isn’t a party of strength. Neither is it a party of loyalty. When DP MPs picks themselves to be Ministers and abandons the party along the way. Neither, is it that people choose sides between the Pressure Group and the People’s Government. That shows how the secretariat and the lack structure is there.

While the DP Party still have tried to be relevant with both the DP Block, which got two former cadres back in the fold to create the DP Block. Also, tried to tie in Bobi Wine and Mugisha Muntu in the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for the 2021 elections. Neither has succeeded.

Now, as the internal primaries is scheduled and rows are surfacing. Mao speaks of loyalty and claims party members are acting ill-loyal. Well, he haven’t sanctioned that in the past. He didn’t ban or stop Mbidde from gathering in around Museveni. Neither, did he stop the other from becoming part of the cabinet. Thirdly, he was only mad that two vital leaders joined the People’s Government. While he was silent on the ones associating themselves with Bobi Wine. So, his not consistent. At least not in respects to where people should go and what they should do.

Not like Mao has made a path, except for showing up as regular on NBS Frontline. His staple and uses his flamboyant style, but his not coming across as a unique leader. No, his just another man whose happen to have a title.

Mao acts like his supreme, like his Devine and shouldn’t be challenged for the Presidency in his own party. That should be false, especially if the party should differ from the NRM. Which is the main challenger ahead of 2021. Unless, they are kidding themselves and wants to be a NRM-Light. Something it has looked like for years and only a given few has gone astray. These has gone to greener pastures to leaders who really tries to fight the Self-Styled President for Life.

Alas, here we are in 2020. Mao talking out of his ass. Acting aloof and unjustifiable so. We can act indifferent. However, we should know that he wants to reign the party. He earns on being in the President. Not like he will try again as an MP in Gulu. He should, because that he got a shot to succeed. While, he doesn’t have a change by any margin to uproar society and elect him President of all.

Mao couldn’t even run as a candidate in the previous election, and he was abysmal as a Presidential Candidate in 2011. Don’t expect magic from him in 2021. He was also one of the proud donkeys supporting Mbabazi. So, we know how compromised he can become. That is just the way it is.

If he continues like this its soon a micro-NRM. A small lookalike and a front of an opposition party. Where the beholden leader by nature is Mao. Instead of elections, it is selections of the ones loyal to him. Instead of people picking the most viable candidates. Is that what Mao wants? Seems so, right? Peace.