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: Amama Mbabazi has returned

“Was my name proposed by President Museveni? I don’t know. What I know is that each of the Presidents of the member states, including President Museveni, have confidence in me” – Amama Mbabazi (16.02.2022)

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) member and former Go-Forward/The Democratic Alliance Presidential Candidate Amama Mbabazi is now in good favours with the State House and the President after the fallout in 2014, which lead too years in the desert and now he has returned to the fold.

His CV is extensive, as described on the World Economic Forum page: “1975, degree in Law, Makerere University; PGD in Legal Practice. 1986-1992, Chairman of the Permanent Tripartite Commission of East African Cooperation and Director-General, External Security Organization; 1997-2001, Minister of State in President’s Office; then Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; 1999-2000, Chairman Political Committee for countries involved in Congo conflict; 2004-06, Attorney-General; 2006, Minister of Defence; 2009-11, Minister for Security. Since May 2011, Prime Minister of Uganda; leads government business in Parliament. Secretary-General, National Resistance Movement, the ruling Party” (World Economic Forum – People – Amama Mbabazi).

This man has done a lot before he went into “opposition” as a presidential candidate and we know he has returned to go graces. The man has become the Special Envoy to South Sudan and Ethiopia. While today it’s official that his the Chairman of the Continental Think-Tank “Global Africa Security Foundation”, which is created by President Yoweri Tibuhurwa Kaguta Museveni and President Denis Sassou-Nguesso after the Oyo Mini-Summit earlier this month. The headquarters will be in Dakar, Senegal. Which means the chairman has to extensive travel in his operative state between Kampala, Dakar, Juba and Addis Ababa.

If this isn’t the return of Mbabazi nothing is. This shows that Museveni trust him and offers him plum-jobs. At one point he was seen as one of the most corrupt men of East Africa. He was a well known figure and the scandals surrounded him. The way of which he operated both the NRM party and his position within the cabinet. That was just his style and fashion, as a trusted man of the party and of the President. This is why he could get away with it and he defended it too.

Mbabazi was such a vocal representative of the state, as he has defended the NRM in many instances as well. This is why the President seems fit to have him back. He knows that Mbabazi will have his back and be supportive. They have known each other all these years and anything else would be strange. Especially, since the “opposition” enterprise didn’t go forward, but was a step backwards for the internal organizer.

It will be striking to see him defend the causes of “No Change” on a continental level, as the new foundation is made in the spirit of being against coup d’etat’s and putsch. That will be a travel for a man who has followed the NRM from early stages and been a permanent member of the party. So, to see this happening only makes sense.

As he is now regarded as the trustees of the legacy of Museveni. His one of the men who has been by his side and delivered what he has needed. Other than using his standing and causing a stir, which seems like ages ago. He has now gotten into good graces and that is evident. If he wasn’t he wouldn’t be a Special Envoy and be Chairman of the newly minted foundation.

That’s why you know he will carry the wishes of the President and be his token soldier defending his causes there. Peace.

Opinion: Nobody got burned like Mbabazi [and that’s why nobody aims at the King from within]

Today the former speaker of the Parliament and now Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga came out with a statement denouncing any sort of ambition or want to stand as Presidential Flag-bearer in the National Resistance Movement (NRM). This after what she calls “fictitious reports” on social media about a possible candidacy for Presidency in 2026.

We know it was bad enough that she didn’t follow party-line and stood as a candidate for Speakership the third time in a row, because the NRM CEC did support her bid in the 11^th Parliament. Alas, she has already rebelled once and gotten off the hook. While getting a plum-job after losing her prestigious role to Jacob Oulanyah.

What we are seeing here is that Kadaga have learned from history. That is there is no value in blind ambition or even aiming at the throne. You will just get your wings clipped and become quickly a “stalwart” of the party. Nearly a useless historical without any office or paid leave. The party and the state will just throw out and forget all the time you spent making a career within. Unless, you humble yourself and degrade yourself, in such a manner, of which the King gets his praise and his honour.

If you do that, you can get back into good grace. Hold talks and even get considered by the state for positions. This being Gilbert Bukenya who has gotten a role within the party or Mbabazi who has held secret talks with His Excellency.

Amama Mbabazi is the one that went all flying high, as the Prime Minister and Secretary General of the party. He aimed from within and tried to cause an up-evil. Mbabazi sought for the throne and the title. While seeking to do it from within. He thought for some reason that he could conquer and takeover from his master. However, that never happened and the independent candidacy on a NRM ticket became a thing. As his pressure group “Go-Forward” was able to oversee and become the flag-bearer of a joint-opposition coalition with The Democratic Alliance (TDA/Go-Forward) in the 2016 General Election. Nevertheless, the results was bogus and hopeless, he didn’t stand a chance and was humiliated on a grand scale. While the other opposition was rigged out of the title and the whole game. Therefore, the game-plan of Mbabazi was flawed from the outset and he should have known this.

Mbabazi showed the world that the NRM is only for Museveni and his clientele. The Supreme Leader and Majesty is the one and only. Nobody can challenge or even consider replacing him. That is treason and defaults you from ever having any sort of serious role or honourable title. You will be humbled and put in place. That’s the NRM Way and Mbabazi should have known better, but clearly he didn’t.

Alas, that’s why we are here in 2021. As nobody wants to go through life like Mbabazi did in 2015 and 2016. Wait for years and be secluded like a virus and be under self-imposed lockdown in your own compound. Just because you challenged His Excellency. Nobody with a sound mind will do this, unless they are faking it and trying to act like opposition. Nevertheless, Mbabazi has shown the world something and the genie is out of the bottle.

Kadaga wouldn’t have a half chance and would be an afterthought. She would be the “afternoon delight” and become a skit before half-time. That’s why the Second Round K.O. would be brutal and her career wouldn’t be able to resurrect. Unless, Jesus would bless her coffers and the Catholic church would atonement her sins. Then she might have a shot and would be able to carry the cross. However, we know the son is the only one who is allowed to have this blind ambition. Peace

Opinion: FDC always wants to be United on its own terms…

Well, I never wanted to do this, but the way Patrick Oboi Amuriat and other FDC leaders have acted lately. It is time to challenge the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and their manners. This isn’t anything new… just like after the recent elections, the FDC and the leadership went on a rampage against National Unity Platform (NUP). Even after the NUP asked for meeting and coordination with the other opposition parties.

Now, this week the FDC has launched a new opposition coalition in the People’s Front for Transition (PFT). Nothing wrong in doing that, but they didn’t do in a way, which the NUP felt at home there. Neither has the FDC or NUP resolved the previous coalition of United Forces for Change (UFC) which was founded in 2020 ahead of the polls. So, it is really questionable to start a fresh one this quick.

The FDC wasn’t that diplomatic or helpful with all parties in the 2011 Inter-Party Cooperation. A coalition where the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and Democratic Party (DP) didn’t participate in. As they felt the way it was launched and created was to benefit FDC and their flagbearers. That’s why dropped out of it.

In 2016, there was another coalition made ahead of the polls. The Democratic Alliance (TDA) of which the FDC dropped out. Since, they didn’t get the flagbearer and they we’re afraid to support other parties within the coalition. As, the FDC was seen as the biggest party and they felt betrayed that they wouldn’t have the Presidential Candidate. The TDA eventually went for Amama Mbabazi, as he was independent candidate for a pressure group at that time.

Now, in 2021 after the polls and with an unsuccessful stint with the UFC. Dr. Kizza Besigye is again launching a new coalition. It is filled with fractions of the DP and UPC party. Also with Conservative Party, JEEMA, People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and others too. However, it does not have the biggest opposition party the NUP. That means it isn’t a totally united force. Neither, does it have the main fractions of the DP & UPC. Which renders the question of the power and ability to widen the objectives of coalition in question.

In this way, it seems like again the other parties have to accept the FDC terms and perspective join forces. Not that the FDC have to meet and greet the others. They just have to follow the suit and the ideals of what the FDC or Besigye is saying. Besigye means well and the ideals his committed too. We can all agree upon, but this haven’t been well coordinated or successful. When only these are showing up and showing intent.

Maybe, the likes of the NUP feels betrayed themselves and humiliated by the way the FDC answered the callings earlier in the year. When the FDC wanted to even revoke or relinquish the membership of the FDC MPs who joined the Shadow Government. Heck, the FDC leadership went high and mighty against the NUP. Therefore, the FDC haven’t been forthcoming or concerning the NUP. Until, the the launch of PFT this week.

It seems like the FDC needs to reconsider their movements sometimes. Especially, when people are supposed forget how they acted just a few months ago. When the NUP even tried to show an olive-branch and that got dismissed. Why should the NUP jump on the bandwagon without hesitation? Because, the FDC is so unique. That everyone is supposed to follow it blindly?

No, that isn’t fair to the NUP. Neither would the FDC accept that. That is why they would have felt betrayed, if they were automatically part of the TDA without a shadow of a doubt. This is how it looks like and it’s not cool.

The FDC should know better. I don’t know if it’s entitlement after years as the upper-dog in the opposition. They have fought and can be an inspiration for the next generation. The FDC isn’t dead, but isn’t as viable and strong as it was. Besigye has still power and ability to sway opinion. However, FDC better act more cordial and be more sincere. They cannot bushwhack others to submission. That is not how things works.

The NUP is free to join or not. Just like it didn’t IPOD either. They are finding their own path and that should be respected at this point. The NUP tried with the FDC in the UFC, which was useless. So, why should they trust in the PFT? Peace.

The Correct Way: Museveni’s crudeness towards Mbabazi

“If you want to lead people for a long time, never eat when they (followers) have not eaten. My experience is that if you eat alone, it is very risky. I managed to destroy Mbabazi in 2016 that way. He went and gave money to some leaders and I got the information. I went and told their followers that these people have gotten money and are eating it alone. That was the end of Mbabazi. Be careful on that line. The correct way is you to be part of your people” – Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to NRM Youth Leaders in Kitgum (17.11.2020)

Now that there is stories out that Amama Mbabazi might return back to National Resistance Movement (NRM). As the President is able to retain on the Most Valuable Players (MVP) at the party. He also have to nurture his brilliance and his schemes. This by sowing his manipulation and his utter wisdom.

This here will fall flat within the headlines, as they will focus on the sheer brutality on the opposition. Rightfully so, as the numbers of deceased is rising and the amounts of injured as well. Therefore, this story in hindsight is small, but proves a very important thing.

President Museveni is not only gathering direct intelligence on his opponents. Using that intelligence to get a upper-hand. He does that to crush them. Something he has promised. Ahead of 2016. Amama Mbabazi had the Pressure Group of Go Forward and was the Presidential Candidate in the Opposition Coalition – The Democratic Alliance (TDA). However, that all fall flat and he didn’t create a huge spark.

Still, Mbabazi was seen as wise man and a leader who was capable of organizing and getting things done. That is why Museveni have trusted him countless of times and been a loyal cadre through thick and thin. Until, he jumped ship. Tried to aim for the throne and got kicked out. Therefore, running as an independent.

What we are seeing though. Is interesting as this is what he surely have tried to do elsewhere as well. Surely, he has tried to hook-up and ensure loyalty by feeding some FDC sympathizers and activists. Now, his surely trying to inflict damage and hurt the campaign of Bobi Wine. Just like he has taken away Ashburg Katto, Jenifer Full Figure and others who was associated with People Power. Sure that was in the same way he did with Go Forward. However, it didn’t work out with Bobi Wine. It didn’t cause so much harm. Since the idea and the organization was more vital, than the Presidency maybe has anticipated.

The way Museveni speaks of Mbabazi shows that he believes he can pay everyone off. That he can pay the ones he need and they will loose. This is the long-con. That he can pay-off individuals and destroy campaigns and parties. The President can infiltrate and create a self-destruction from within, because of the common greed. That is why he wants to ensure everyone eats.

This is very telling. A very simple story. Not a beautiful one. Neither, a proof of good leadership. But a self help book to cronies and patronage. This is not proper guidance of a leader. It proves his conning ways. This here is a lesson on how he uses people and tricks their followers to change their ways. 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.

Lt. Gen. Tumukunde: Another NRM big-man aiming at the throne

Today, Lieutenant General Henry Tumukunde has unleashed his will and determination to stand as a Presidential aspirant in the upcoming election of 2021. This is not new that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) have some big-men falling out. However, they have usually gotten back into the fold and gotten new chairs to fill.. 

Lt. Gen. Tumukunde is a long-term NRA/M, who has served in various of positions and held a high regard in the circles around the President. He has failed, gotten sacked and gotten into trouble. However, always had the ability to return and get in the good graces. In May 2018 with his latest role was being the Minister of Security. Also, we know something is up, when the aide to Tumukunde is releasing the information of him loosing military guards at his house in Kololo. That happened about a week ahead of the letter to the Electoral Commission on the 28^th February 2020.

With regards to this, I’m not fooled. There been plenty of decoys in the past too. Even NRA historical of John Nagenda have been critical of the President, but still in good graces in the end. Surely, Tumukunde following a long line of Presidential candidates, who in the end looking for a new avenue for work after the elections. We are even seeing Amama Mbabazi returning to Museveni and getting closer like kin. Surely, Tumukunde wants those perks too.

In 2011, the former Local Government Minister Jaberi Bidandi Ssali was a Presidential Candidate as an opposition candidate. His the father of Bebe Cool, so we know that the NRM loyalties aren’t far from each other. Even as Ssali was known for talking against Museveni for never retiring, still he wasn’t anything the President feared in the polls. He was a former Minister who wouldn’t dare to insult his former master.

In 2015, there was two former high ranking NRM leaders who suddenly stood as Independents. This being Gilbert Bukenya and Amama Mbabazi. Both of these we’re high ranking officials. Bukenya went straight independent and even tried to swing the The Democratic Alliance (TDA) his way. Mbabazi tried to get a position in the Primaries in 2015. However, that is not how the game in the NRM works. That is why Mbabazi was clipped of his wings, both as the Secretary General of the NRM and also of his powerful role as the Prime Minister.

Now, Tumukunde is doing the same, as Ssali, Bukenya and Mbabazi has done. Some says its daring and inspiring. Some says its special for these men to aim at the king. Well, there is no succession and no parts to play internally. So, they got to be loose canons to ever try. However, these gentlemen knows that the President rigs and they will never achieve the goal. It is a battle they are bound to loose.

So, why do it? Is it to get the attention and possible be a part of the NRM NEC or something? Do they want a perky position and get back in the good graces? Is that it all?

Does Tumukunde want the cool headlines, that he visited the President at his farm? Is that all he wants out of life?

We all know, he has no shot to win. There is no winning in this, unless he wants to become the next Beti Kamya or something. If he wants a minor role in a mushrooming cabinet after 2021 elections. To be paid-off handsomely…

Well, this is not a drill, but is a curiosity. It will be bloody, it will be tested and he will be in trouble. However, in the end, he will kiss the ring and go back to his master. That is what they do.

Lt. Gen. will need to eat after 2021. He will return, it is just a matter of time and what he is on the menu. 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.

Amama Mbabazi: The grass wasn’t greener on the other side…

Now matter how you look at it. There is a reason why Amama Mbabazi arrived was at the Kisozi farm in Gombe yesterday. Sitting side-by-side of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Ever since the resignation letter of September 2014. As Amama prepared to challenge Museveni within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) things has gone south for him.

Not like Amama has gotten into trouble like Besigye. Neither did he say that he had left the NRM. He was still a member as he went on with his Presidential Candidate with his pressure group, Go Forward and aligned himself with the The Democratic Alliance (TDA). So, that he was the supposed second option to Museveni. Even as the popularity and the strength in the opposition was all on Besigye.

Still, with that as he walked in the desert. He went days upon end without water. He felt the threat of the state. His people was tear-gassed, the offices of Go Forward was raided and blocked from operation. The consultation meetings was ambushed and sealed off. Youthful supporters and activists was arrested, all of this before the general election of 2016.

Even with all of that, he still until the final day of campaigning was still saying he was an NRM. That shows his loyalty. Even as he was a supposed candidate on the outside of the party. We know he was planning things before and would easily do it again. Just like he did with the NRM Cadre 2014. Evelyn Anite warned about his activities back in 2015 with that group. Therefore, he has proven before that he can light things up. Especially, if it is something in it for him.

Yoweri would enjoy having the services of Amama. His a good organizer and someone whose able to get a machinery going. Especially, if Amama gets some monetary incentives and get options for kick-backs. Mbabazi will serve like a thieving saint, the man of the heart of Mwenda these days. As long as he skims the top of the glass, there will be enough for everyone to drink. That is what Amama does and surely, at this point. Museveni would like to have his brethren back under his wings.

The little rebellion, the failing enterprise of Go Forward/TDA. The mediocre display of trying to gain an advantage and rise as a star in the NRM. Must surely humiliate Mbabazi, who couldn’t even make sense of the games played. He was a pawn seeking a greener pasture. Even if he was eating as there was no tomorrow as the Prime Minister, as the man who secured tenders, looting in the DRC and beyond. Mbabazi had it.

One of the most corrupt leaders in Uganda in living memory. He had everything, risked it all by challenging Museveni. Someone who haven’t lost* an election since taking power. Its hard to believe that Amama didn’t know, as he helped organizing the NRM for plenty of those. Before he had his “independent” run as an NRM member. If there ever was a pawn in the game, he was the one who was the biggest puppet of them all.

With that in mind, let’s say we don’t know what the deal was about yesterday. But he was smug around the President. He delivered some documents and most likely scheming something. If Amama wasn’t, he wouldn’t be true to himself and his own legacy. Peace.

*rigged elections since 1986