Opinion: Ssemujju is clearly not that bright

On the 24th May 2021 Jacob Oulanyah was voted in as the Speaker of the 11th Parliament with the incumbent Rebecca Kadaga becoming the first loser. The second loser of the vote in the plenary session was Forum for Democratic Change own MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda. What is striking is that Ssemujju is going hardball on the National Unity Platform MPs for not supporting his case. That where I will play and deliberate my peace, because this is going nowhere.

Until now, I have had a feeling that MP Ssemujju was bright, but the light-bulb isn’t that shiny anymore. His going after the NUPs MPs votes for Kadaga. Instead of even looking first at his own home. He should look at his fellow party MPs who betrayed him first. If FDC is such a strong and independent machine as it has claimed for years. Why are there so little loyalty for him?

He got 15 votes out of 32 MPs. The MP lost 17 MPs from his own party. That should hurt him. These FDC MPs rather vote for a NRM MP for speaker than for him. Ssemujju should keeps his ducks in a row and speak to the leadership of FDC. He needs to settle the score at Najjakumbi and maybe hold a prayer. Since his current prayers haven’t been answered.

That his targeting the NUP is childish. The 57 MPs are free to act as they see fit or after the strategy of which the party has decided. The NUP have tried to be cordial and work with the FDC before the first plenary session. However, the FDC didn’t want to meet.

While several of FDC MPs have gone after the NUP before hand. They are now targeting the NUP again. It is like a war of hogwash where Ssemujju is following Nandala-Mafabi and Salaamu Musumba. Therefore, why should NUP shield and support a party who is speaking ill of them?

The FDC is no difference to NRM at this point. The NUP might have voted for Kadaga in spite. However, that was in their interest and their choice. That Ssemujju was the only real “opposition” candidate. His still not a uniting figure or a voice of reason here. He cannot even galvanize the FDC behind him. Why should the NUP break their back for him? Why?

The FDC hasn’t been co-operative and in favour of joint ventures since 2011s Inter-Party Coalition (IPC). They haven’t really been sincere and dropped righteously out of The Democratic Alliance (TDA). Neither was there any sense or work within the United Forces for Change (UFC). The UFC didn’t even do anything in regards to the 2021 elections. It was a document and presser between Bobi Wine and Besigye. However, it was a wasted opportunity.

This is nothing new, but it is a pattern. The FDC is really attacking the NUP. The newcomer who has taken their place. It is like its an unfavourable position to get into. The FDC had no issues being the big-shot over the Democratic Party (DP) and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC). Now the biggest opposition party happens to be the NUP. Alas, that not counting all the independent MPs who can lean where-ever way they feel is right at any moment. The independents are the biggest party except for the NRM, but still the NUP is the one counted. That says a lot.

The FDC wants to be the governing party and be the big-men in Parliament. That is understandable. They have fought, fought and not gotten any real credit. That is understandable. It is reasonable that they want money, power and respect. However, that is given and not taken. The FDC should act with more sense.

Ssemujju should be more wise than this. He should know that the NUP can do whatever they feel. Even if it is foolish, obnoxious or not making sense. He should have his mind correct here. The FDC MP should speak of his own before going after the NUP.

Ssemujju should write his first passages of a prayer before going on national TV. The sermon should be scheduled and be delivered. He should summon the FDC Pastor and get the reverend to hymn in.

Just like I told Nambooze was wrong the other day, because she wanted Ssemujju to warn everyone else about his candidacy. Well, Ssemujju should first alert his party, before having talks with others ahead of the vote. There been enough trouble in the waters in the stages ahead of the polls. That is proven now in the aftermath.

Nevertheless, the FDC seems to be on a warpath and on the barricades. They are doing that instead of being humble. The FDC could show courage and greatness to the 11th Parliament. Instead they are showing entitlement. For a party that has fought. I would think they would be happy to see a new generation coming in and a new party rising up. Instead, they are directly assaulting it.

Ssemujju could get allies and partners within the NUP. However, by acting like this. Why would they work with him? When his not addressing the lost boys or lost causes within his own party? That’s where he should start. After that maybe cordial address the matter and what happened.

Ssemujju should know this and would expect that of others. Not just go all out and trying to mock the NUP. That is to be anticipated by the NRM and their handlers. They are mocking for voting a NRM candidate (Kadaga). That is righteous to do, but Ssemujju needs figure his way. He should know better, but that’s too much to ask.

It is clearly easier to cane the new kid on the block. Going out kicking and screaming, instead of speaking ill of your own. Ssemujju do yourself a favour and stop. This is amounting to nothing. There is nothing to win here. You were the second loser and there is no way to turn the tables around. Even with 57 more votes, you wouldn’t have more than about 70 voters. Which would still be pointless. So, what was there to gain for the NUP?

Would they have a friendly face in the press? Or would you think some more independents throwing their ballots your way?

I doubt it, you would cause a fit no matter what. Ssemujju isn’t looking smart, but acting a fool. You can do better, but clearly that’s too much to ask. Peace.

Opinion: The NUP should emulate the EFF in the 11th Parliament

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) came into existence after former African National Congress Youth League (ANC-YL) Leader Julius Malema was axed there. He created his own party in 2013 and came into the Parliamentary Election in 2014 like fire-brand politician. That’s a position he has kept ever since.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) and their Members of Parliament (MPs) should study the EFF of South Africa. They should consider their “assault” and their vindictive attitude towards the procedures and protocol. As the NUP no matter what it does. It will reflect bad on them. They are in a battle they cannot win. They have a minority, even if they are the leaders of opposition.

With those seats and with the MPs they do have. They should interrupt, sing songs and walk-out of plenary sessions. The NUP can be as vile and rude as the EFF. Since, we all know the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has no concern for the opposition. They can use Special Force Command (SFC) to silence MPs in Kololo and easily do it again.

That’s why Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine should get some notes and some experience from Malema. He should really call him and get some guidance. So, that he can gather his MPs at his home in Magere, Wakiso district and give them a heads-up. If not have a sessions and meetings with them ahead of the plenary session.

The NUP needs to this sort of play. Since the playing around the games of the ruling regime isn’t helping anyone. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has had more power and sway when they have used defiance and demonstrations for their causes. The same is what the NUP needs ahead. To forge a game-plan and even take inspiration of the EFF.

That is my advice. Call Malema, look into the history of the EFF and do the bidding of them in a Ugandan way. Take the noise, the walk-outs and the singing. Show disregard for the National Assembly. Risk everything and loose out. Show the general public that your a stark contrast to the ruling party. That your different and radical. Not only wearing a red beret, but showing resilience in-action.

This should motivate the 57 NUP MPs … they should see the results of the EFF, which has grown in strength since 2013. Malema has been able to build a steady party. Just like he was able to grow his national standing in the ANC-YL. Bobi Wine should follow this and do that his own way. Though, there is nothing wrong with learning from others experience.

Especially, when people starting to judge and go by default on the voting of yesterday’s speakership race. That is why not only out of a publicity standpoint, but a factor of showing difference from the ruling regime. The newcomer and the contrast to NRM needs to be shown.

I hate to say this, but the diplomatic and playing by the rules of the FDC haven’t helped the cause. They have had their time and it hasn’t had a big pay-off. They have built a strong party in the middle of oppression and it’s commendable. However, they have not gone from strength to strength.

Bobi Wine and the NUP can forge another way now for them and for the Parliament. They need to chase loud dissent and even suspensions. If they follow this path… there will inquires and commissions. Some public outcry, but also proof of how stupid the government is. As the investigations and reports will prove why the NUP acted like it did. That can most likely show what the NRM wants to keep a secret. That’s the smart move of this and something that’s needed.

The NUP should see what happened around the kicking out of MPs in concern to the Age Limit saga. That is the last time violence, attack on the Parliament and the dark truth of how the state is run. This is the reality and it won’t get better.

The President and his team is running the state with an iron fist. The army and Special Force Command can easily entertain another round of violence in the national assembly. This is why the NUP needs to address the situation differently. They cannot the same procedure and protocol like its predecessors. Especially, if it wants to prove a difference.

Because, if it’s run and mediocre. If they are just vindictive and relentless, than they will not go anywhere. There is a need for plan and stage this ahead. Be one item and team who causes havoc in the plenary sessions. They need to cause fury and rage. To prove where everything is wrong with this system. That is how they can humiliate and show the reality to the world. Peace.

Opinion: The tattle-tail becomes Oulanyah’s deputy

With no real margin of error the Deputy Speaker of the 11th Parliament is National Resistance Movement (NRM) MP Anita Among. Who has gone from being elected as Independent MP in 2016, but leaning towards the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC). While voting for the important legislation or motions in favour of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

We know she has earned the spoils of her loyalty to the President and the State House. As she has a fabulous home, owns a radio station (Mama Bukedea FM). Among has also been a regular visitor at the State House. Clearly getting favourable treatment of late.

In 2017 there was rumours that she was the mastermind of murdering people in her district. As well, as leaking FDC secrets to the State House. There was sources saying “she would do anything for money”. Clearly, with the amassed wealth and rise to prestige. Among clearly have found her source of wealth.

In September 2019 there was speculation of an assassination attempt on the MP at her home. Where two assailants or two gun-men who was even followed by the authorities before disappearing.

In May 2020 she went relentless on a person posting things on Facebook. In such a fit, that she personally got all the authorities involved and got one Private Secretary of the President in charge of Poverty Alleviation in Busoga under investigation together with an accomplice Brian Kinene. She was able to use the Cyber Unit of CID to investigate the matter and put it on blast. That was done over two Facebook posts. This says a lot about her character.

Among haven’t had a long career, but still been creating headlines. Gotten the loyalty and it’s paying off. As she couldn’t continue sell stories and be in fire while leaning towards the FDC. She had to eventually cross sides.

Now she could stand unopposed and run through the election with no real competition. Anointed by the President and has now his blessings. Clearly she will continue to use her power. Now, she haven’t the need to go to Kadaga. Among can just do what her feel and do what Museveni directs her to do.

I don’t trust Deputy Speaker to value democratic values, neither honour the chambers of the Parliament. No, she’s in it for the money and Museveni will further corrupt her mind. Give her nice tokens for her service and she is favourable person for him. However, she is useful right now. But she just have to wait her turn. When she is not useful anymore.

Than she will be ditched and dropped as quickly, as the NRM dropped Kadaga today. Peace.

Opinion: The opposition have failed Ssemujju [and the NRM didn’t vote collectively for Oulanyah]

Not it’s shocking or anything, but the opposition have failed in a way. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) haven’t even been able to get their MPs behind their own party candidate for speaker in the 11th Parliament. Not that it should be automatic for the opposition to vote for an opposition candidate. Still, if they want something different and wants another type of leader at the helm. Than they shouldn’t vote for the ones who has already been puppets of the President.

It is official that Jacob Oulanyah is the next speaker. He got the majority with 310 MPs, which is a weak one in itself. The National Resistance Movement have 336 MPs alone and means someone wasn’t following the party line there as well and voting for the Independent candidate Rebecca Kadaga. If the UPDF MPs are voting directly for NRM causes, that means 300 NRM MPs voted for their own plus the UPDF. That means 36 NRM MPs voted for Rebecca Kadaga, instead of Oulanyah.

What is shocking is that Kadaga most likely got a huge support from the opposition and the independents of the Parliament. As she got 197 votes today. Not that it’s enough to retain her office. However, it shows that the opposition who is 98 MPs. This being the National Unity Platform (NUP) with 57 MPs, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) 32 MPs, Democratic Party (DP) 9 MPs, which is in total 98 MPs. The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has an additional 9 MPs, but with the agreement with NRM of the past. It’s hard to call them “opposition” at this point.

There 74 Independent MPs and with opposition MPs is a total of 174 MPs. That is very close to numbers Kadaga got. That means there are several of NRM who voted for her. Clearly, the non-partisan UPDF MPs would automatically vote for Oulanyah. That is securing 10 MPs his way. They follow the chain-in-command at any point of time. We know this and the public knows this too.

Still, the FDC has lost 17 MPs to Kadaga or Oulanyah. That is mediocre approach. That the NUP have shown a weird tactic too. They most likely voted Kadaga is just baffling. That they are doing this politicking. Supporting a former servant of the dictator and giving way to her. Just because she had a brief fallout and lost favours with him.

That the DP could go either way at this point. The UPC is shallow too, but with the numbers and secret ballots. There is just speculations who voted where. However, the ammo for questionable affairs is clear. The strength is within the ruling regime. They can win, even when they are not trying. That shows how the 11th Parliament will be.

I didn’t expect Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda should have more than 32 MPs on his side. Not only 15 MPs, which is only barely half of the FDC group of MPs in Parliament. He has been let down not by the opposition, but by his own party. They have not shown loyalty to their own. The NUP could play where-ever they saw fit. Naye, they clearly went for Kadaga just to spite Museveni. Instead of playing a long-game with FDC. This is not a good sign for the rest of this term.

The NUP and FDC have combined a big block of MPs with 89 MPs in the 11th Parliament. These MPs could made a difference and their votes could have sent a signal to the authorities. However, they instead voted for Kadaga. The FDC, NUP and DP have all backed the former speaker, one way or another. That is what these numbers and secret ballots says.

The opposition let Ssemujju down, but they first needs to look into their own before shelling assaults at NUP or elsewhere. When you cannot even muster support at home. You cannot go across party-lines. The NUP has disappointed me as well, but it’s not shocking. More of their first moves in Parliament. However, I hope they will really work in constructive opposition behaviour and not petty politicking like today. This is not furthering their cause, but only questioning their methods.

The NRM is also not as strong as they trying to portray. As they are lacking total support for their own. They are not collective behind Oulanyah. There are missing MPs who bailed on the NRM CEC decision. That says a lot too. That is something the President needs to think about and reflect upon at the State House. Peace.

Opinion: Kadaga can blow up a lot of smoke

Fellow Ugandans, I have come to inform the people of Uganda that my party has opted not to give me the party flag for Speaker of Parliament. I have therefore decided to run as an independent” – Rebecca Kadaga (23.05.2021).

Today and in the recent days it’s all natural that Rebecca Kadaga gets in her feelings. That she puts on Drake and sing along to sad tunes. That’s all natural at this point. She has had a long stint or a decade in the role as the Speaker in Parliament. In the 11th Parliament her fate is sealed and there is no way for her to win.

The National Resistance Movement Central Executive Committee have decided to put someone else forward to be the speaker in this term. That means Kadaga’s fall is inevitable. She has lost her position and office over night. That was to be expected and a trade-off would happen behind the scenes. However, Kadaga seemed to think she was entitled to this.

That’s why she suddenly wants to run as an Independent in the Speakership race. However, the loyalty and the party cadres of the NRM is supposed to follow party line. Meaning, she will no way in hell be able to conquer or overcome the obstacle of the NRM party in the 11th Parliament. There is no way they will vote in favour of her and her cause. That’s a no go and they will not defy the NRM CEC.

The Parliament is supposed to elect the speaker. That’s not supposed to happen in the State House or at a the highest party committee meeting either. However, we all know that this is a test of loyalty for the MPs. The NRM MPs who has had training at Kyankwanzi is supposed to show their character now and what they learned. That is to loyal to the cause and follow the NRM Way. This means the decisions put forward by the NRM CEC is final. Even if the stipulations of law and parliamentary procedure doesn’t have anything about minutes or meeting outside the chambers of the national assembly.

Still, here we are and we know the drill. Kadaga can cry rivers and run as independent. However, we know perfectly well that these MPs are subjects for their President and needs to follow his direction. If not they will suffer and be punished like no tomorrow. That’s why the game is set and it’s rigged in favour of the people who are anointed by the “high above”.

What is funny is that Kadaga knows this and have been breathing in this system for years. She’s not new to this and she seen it all. The fallouts, the break-up’s and the make-ups. She has seen how Mbabazi, Tumukunde and Bukenya have all had their turns. Kadaga knows this and accepted this.

Nevertheless, it is like its fine while your singing praises and eating. It is now evident that her meal-ticket is over and someone else’s turn. That hurts her pride and her stomach. She’s afraid of getting hungry and goes into battle mode. Even if that is a failure from the start.

Kadaga has battled the opposition. She has been a loyal soldier and one the bidding of the President. Severed him diligently and delivered what he asked. Nevertheless, it is never enough and he got priorities. The President have to trade-off political pieces to get the puzzle together. That’s why she is sacrificed for this.

Though we know and she knows there is silver-lining. At the end of the day. If she had taken it and swallowed her pride. The President and the NRM would have given her another office with perks and allowances. Kadaga wouldn’t have be the speaker, but be at service with a fancy title.

Now she sings the songs of defiance. That’s a game she is bound to fail. Especially, when the stacks are all against her. This is only a play for pity and there is little to nothing to gain. Only more misery. It is like she’s forgetful and thinks she’s above it all.

Sorry madam, but your not. You are just another pawn and a useful idiot for his highness. He had the use of you and if you played your cards right. He would have offered you another role later on. However, now that you get into combat mode. He will make you suffer and you’ll regret ever participating in his games. Because now for the first time, you’ll get to see the dark-side of his reign. Peace.

Opinion: Oulanyah will not make a difference

The former Deputy Speaker and Oromo County MP Jacob Oulanyah will not change things in the 11th Parliament. As he is set to be promoted from Deputy to the Speaker of the Parliament. This after two terms as the Deputy. He is now set to lead and be at the reigns. However, his a loyal soldier in the chambers and will not add any significant change.

He has been in Parliament now for three successive terms. Where he has served the President and National Resistance Movement (NRM) with amassed loyalty. To such a point, that he has no quarrels using Vice-President Guards to throw out opposition in 2013.

We know that he serves the interests of the President to the fullest. As he has stated in the past, that resolutions or recommendations passed in Parliament is only seen as advisory for the Executive I.E. the President. This meaning, when the Parliament passes these things. It is up to the President to enact or accept this advice or not. It is not legally binding, but token of advice.

If he really thinks like this. Then the methods and ways the Parliament is working has to be different. The MPs have to allocate their resources and their paper-trial different. So, they can go from an advisory body to a legal binding body. Which they already have to await ascending the laws by the executive in the end. Still, that adds more pressure to the President to enact the will of the Parliament.

Therefore, with the knowledge of previous acts of Oulanyah. Expect him to act upon this, but not be shocked. His a loyal man to the end. That’s why in 2012 he was willing to skip house rules to save face of the Bank of Uganda Commissioner Eng. Mutebile. This the sort of behaviour he has and history as well. Where he is willing to skip rules and do that serve his party. Instead of even following basic rules of procedure in the august house.

It is clear that his a man and been in the inner-circle. That’s why he has gotten to this point. Where the NRM CEC is saying his the man. When the NRM CEC is endorsing him. It is initially saying his the next in line. This is the final decision and the ones that matter. That’s where you want your order to come from and where you get the majority backing from as well.

He is a puppet, a loyal of sorts. A man who will do the bidding of the NRM and the President. He will allow the chambers to be overtaken by soldiers and security officers in plain clothes. Votes in favour of the President and legislation only serving him. That’s why his there in the first place. While his spending small percentages of his wealth on philanthropy in his district and county.

When you know all of this. Let’s be perfectly clear. Changing Oulanyah with Kadaga or vice versa wont make much difference. These two are practically the same. They have worked for the same objectives and serving the same master. That will continue. One has fallen and one has been promoted. The Parliament will still act in same manner as before.

Expect NUP MPs to be thrown out. FDC MPs to be thrown out. Expect investigation into opposition MPs and such. There will be a mess and the demonstrations will not prevail. The NRM runs the game and they have the weight behind it.

11th Parliament will not act much different from the 10th Parliament. Yes, there is a different speaker, but they will still need to wait for the NRM Caucus at the State House. There will still await the Cabinet decisions and the appointments of the President. If not the Presidential letters amending laws, legislation and the structure as a whole. Because, that’s what’s happening on the regular. That will not change under the rule of Oulanyah.

No, because he doesn’t have the power to change that. He just have to serve and be the servant for the cause of Museveni. That’s why his there in the first place. Oulanyah might say otherwise, but he knows damn well what keeps him there. It isn’t his legal mind or his character. No, it is his blind loyalty and that’s his willing to serve. Peace.

Opinion: The 27 guns vetted Museveni [Kadaga know this]

I want CEC to explain to me why Museveni is not subjected to the same. Why isn’t he also vetted? Nobody puts him under any vetting. He automatically qualifies and yet this is too undemocratic. Which kind of democracy is this?”Rebecca Kadaga (Emmanuel Busingye – ‘Kadaga to NRM CEC: Who vets Museveni?’ 19.05.2021, ekyooto.co.uk)

The two time speaker of Parliament Rebecca Kadaga have no suddenly questioned the vetting of President Yoweri Tibuhurwa Kaguta Museveni. The sole-candidate and automatic chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM). It is funny that she does this after skating through the General Election herself and following ordinary protocol of the NRM.

Kadaga knows perfectly well… that everyone else has to follow electoral stipulations, codes and regulations. The President, the High Above and the King over Kings. He doesn’t have too. That’s why the Electoral Commission can write a sentence or two, but never publicly drop his credentials for his education or anything else. While others can be sued and lose their seat over the same issues.

Kadaga has seen this and knows this very well. This isn’t a new issue. It is old and gotten old with all the elections happening every 5 years. Museveni is never touched and he never have to deliver anything. He can just do a walk-over and the due-process continues like always.

President Museveni is practically untouchable. His the Don of the Family, the one who has all power and everyone else is his court. Museveni is the king and the rest are his servants, one way or another. Kadaga should has seen this and it couldn’t be shocking to her.

It is just that entitlement and expectations are hitting the fan. She doesn’t like that she has to follow the party lines and be a loyal subject. While he can do whatever and doesn’t have worry about anything. That’s because everything is built around him. She might dislike that, but that is the mere fact in this.

Museveni has been allowed and ensured things are run this way. Everyone else is accountable to him, but his not accountable to anyone. He has been the master, the commander and the supreme leader without any question of authority. Kadaga maybe doesn’t abide by this, but she has played along these lines in her career.

Kadaga can be infuriated that her tenure and her role is fading. As Museveni is dealing with his petty politics and keeping his ducks in a row. We know that the only ones keeping Museveni to account was the 27 guns. It was the NRA getting him into power in 1986. Since then his been above it all and haven’t needed any help from anyone. His been the man and people have allowed him that.

It is the guns, the army, the police and the authorities that gives him power. It isn’t the likes of Kadaga or anyone else. They are just there to serve his wishes and be a loyal subject. She might hate that and dislike that she has to be accountable to the NRM CEC. However, she has accepted this so far, why are she blasting the system now? Is that because she’s worried that someone will muffle with the bag? That her pay-off will be less and she is accustomed to a favourable salary. Is that the reason for all of this?

Kadaga has been a token soldier in Parliament for years. It is seemingly a worry that she will fall and be just another MP. That’s why she acts like this. Even though she knows and we knows that it was only the NRA that have held Museveni accountable. The rest is just small players who entertains him within his spectrum of power. Peace.

Opinion: Nandala-Mafabi better question his own credibility before he questions others

We cannot work with people who are opposition in daytime but at night they are different. They sneak to state house and make deals with the junta”Nathan Nandala-Mafabi (20.05.2021)

The Secretary General of Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Nathan Nandala-Mafabi better relax and gets his ducks in row before he goes after National Unity Platform (NUP). The former Leader of Opposition and trying to be front runner of FDC. Nandala-Mafabi who haven’t had the ability to become Party President. The man who nearly started his own farmers party, but saw no traction for it. So, he returned back to the FDC.

That man better check his own credibility before he addresses NUP MPs. The NUP haven’t even had a second in the Parliament. Before he throws them shade. This being a man who has had two terms at least in office and he should be careful. He has enough questionable attributes and actions in the past. This man should know better. However, pride and ego is a dangerous field.

Just these things says a lot about him.

President Yoweri Museveni, who is also the Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), yesterday received and welcomed Mr. Moses Kisolo, a Personal Assistant to the leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi, who crossed from the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and joined the NRM Party” (Statehouse.go.ug – ‘Hon. Mafabi’s Aide crosses to NRM’ 10.04.2012).

Magurara in a series of email replies accuses Nandala Mafabi of liking to create ‘controversies’ to bring bad publicity to the party, which benefits the ruling NRM regime of President Museveni. The aging Mugarura also makes reference to the manner in which Maj. Rubaramira Ruranga who chaired Nandala’s anti-Muntu campaigns last time defected to NRM and implies there is a rumor Nandala may follow suit in case he loses to Muntu again. Mugarura warns Nandala to tread carefully “unless you want some of us to begin taking the rumor seriously.”” (Faridah Nassereka – ‘Nandala Mafabi ‘spying for Museveni’ FDC boss reveals’ 29.06.2017, thelocal.ug).

Members of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) rapped their secretary general for attending Independence Day ceremonies in Sironko district. FDC say it passed a resolution barring its members from attending events presided over by President Museveni” (Independent.co.ug – ‘FDC blasts Nandala Mafabi over Museveni’ 20.10.2019).

This is just the little drip drops of things between NRM and the FDC Secretary General. Nandala-Mafabi should be more careful. Just like he should be careful getting into scandals over land, business-roles or even connections to Chinese Telecoms. This man has enough leverage and operating roles to become corrupt. He could easily be bought and lose his values over businesses-dealings.

The FDC man can throw shade and speak his peace, but a man of that stature should be more worried about his own standing. Than looking into the newcomer and the new opposition. Who happens to be the command party of the opposition in this term. The FDC has had their time to shine and make a difference on this. Now, there is a newcomer who has more power and seats in the 11th Parliament. That must hurt the pride of him. As well, as seeing former allies failing in Alliance for National Transformation (ANT). The ones he said he wouldn’t miss in the FDC.

Therefore, Nandala-Mafabi isn’t showing progress, but regress when he speaks ill of the ones he needs to work with. If he wants to be true opposition and not a possible tool of NRM within the opposition.

In August 2017, he said this about himself, which is what he directed at NUP today:

I have heard some people say that Nandala was bought by Museveni to kill FDC. Those saying that, even their mothers cannot vote FDC. They just play on our blood…. During day, they are FDC and at night they are NRM. Even the fuel they put in their cars is NRM. Even the money they eat is NRM. Some of them use others as conduits to get NRM money” (Nandala-Mafabi, 18.08.2017),

He uses the same narrative here. Therefore, what is his deal and what does he want to achieve? Why is he saying the same thing about others? When he has had the same issue for years? Shouldn’t he be supporting, instead of saying the same things about others?

Does he have the credibility to question the NUP before they are even getting through the door and getting into office. Shouldn’t he be more careful and more insightful. As he has been within reach of power and a MP for so long. Nandala-Mafabi should know better, but clearly he doesn’t. He could be a wise elder and be a man who enlighten the newcomers in opposition. Instead he goes into combat-mode and not trying to give them a olive branch.

Not that I expect Nandala-Mafabi to be expressive and friendly to the NUP. He could be cordial and try to talk. Not dismiss them before they even say a thing in the 11th Parliament. That is insincere and shows his discontent. That he cannot handle the changes of power and popularity. This shows the lack of character and trust in others. Because, they are not accountable to him or the FDC, but they are liable to NUP and their leadership. Therefore, the opposition leader should sit down and talk.

Especially, when he has all these issues of the past and throwing shade. Maybe his still sour that he never got appointed as the Chairman of Bank of Uganda (BoU). Who knows, but this isn’t it and he should know better. Peace.

Opinion: Do you expect an old man to save the youth?

I hate to say this… am not an ageist or anything. Usually, you age or career, the wisdom and the knowledge gotten over the years would be a positive. In most cases the wisdom of an elder is more valuable than the short-term gains of a quick pay-off. However, in this case it abundantly clear that this old man doesn’t care about the growing citizens or their needs.

This man in question in Yoweri Tibuhurwa Kaguta Museveni. He will not dwell on that a second. Him and his allies will only care if their pockets are getting deeper or someone else is covering the bills. This man will not stand on the barricades for the ghettoes, the youths and the unemployed. No, he rather re-open the same factory and promise an industrial revolution. This man rather create white-elephants of food-processing or Juice-Factories across the Republic. Than actually do something sustainable.

Museveni have done the drill. He has dismantled commissions, national entities and he has profited. If not his allies have and they are loyal to him for it. They have misused ministries, tenders and created ghost enterprises. The whole charade will continue until his reign is over. The ones closely associated and “investors” will be pulled in by the grand corruption and the possible kickbacks. They will not be there for “development” or create a unique business. No, they are there because they know they will earn a quick buck without putting in the work. It is that is.

With that sort of regime and entitlement. With that sort modus operandi. Who thinks this man will save anyone else? He has let other die in his stead, but he has not come to the rescue of those who carried him at his weakest. This man have never returned a favour and only tried to compromise the ones he could get into the fold. He just want to ensure loyalty to him and not to further his supposed project.

No, this revolutionary was only in it for himself and used the “liberation” war as ploy to get wealth. He is fraud and fake with a lot of arms and fire-power. Not denying that and that what gives him the reign still. Not because he created a society or a policies which is fuelling hope. No, that boat have been sinking for years.

The state have delivered the same sort of monetary gains schemes, which is supposed to produce massive wealth and riches on the hustling economy. It is supposed to make farmers, cow-herders and charcoal salesmen into multi-millionaires within this method. However, there is little to no proof of this. Neither is many of these schemes are also supposed to secure the livelihoods and improve the cash-crops and profitable rural economy. This has been done with little to mediocre success. While the state has pushed similar things all along.

President Museveni will not save the youth and the unemployed. They are just useful tools to keep the oppression and keep the citizens hungry enough to worry about the next meal. Instead of wanting to fight or create a revolution to bring him down. This sort of play is also securing multi-national organization, the UN Organizations and others to cover from the misgivings of the state. So, that he doesn’t have to make proper and strong institutions to carry these things. The shortfall and lacks will be covered by aid, donor-funds or loans from IMF/WB/AfDB. That is just how things goes…

Museveni… will not save the youths as his ageing. He has less of reasons to care or even create real opportunities now. He has had 35 years to produce and haven’t done that until now. That train has left the station and now way it’s returning.

President Museveni promises to “Secure Your Future” and “Steady Progress” but he will not deliver either of this. Just like all the other promises. They are “hot air” and the up-coming generation, the previous ones and only a marginal elite have found some sort way to get promoted in this system. Just like the entitled few who has been anointed or was a part of the National Resistance Army (NRA). They are the ones who get the perks and the deals. The others get breadcrumbs, if they really that lucky even.

So don’t believe the hype… he will not be saviour but only be more sinister and more horrific as his gotten used to get away with murder. Peace.

A look into the “Rigged” Report [the 11th May 2021 Edition]

Today was the day of the 7th Swearing-In Ceremony of President Yoweri Tibuhurwa Kaguta Museveni. The 6th Ceremony held at Kololo Independence Ground and the 6th Ceremony of this kind held on the 12th May in the election year. Well, the President has now concluded this election.

Though I will dig into the important material in the Report released called “Rigged” which was published with a new edition yesterday. Dr. Nico Schoonderwoerd with acknowledgements to Bruce I. Afran and Robert Kyagulanyi and the National Unity Platform (NUP) for certain aspects of the report, which was in the original published on the 17th March 2021.

I will look through and drop my notes on the matter in between the pieces of information. Which say a lot about the conducted elections of January 2021. I will not look into the voter intimidation and bribery. Neither address the senseless violence, impunity and misuse of the authorities in favour of the regime. That I have discussed in length in other articles. Here I feel the “head-shot” or the “winning ticket” is the ballot box stuffing and Post DoR Fraud.

I will begin with this quote:

In the various regions we see the different types of rigging being applied in a different way.

Region

Voter intimidation

Bribery

Ballot box stuffing

Post-Dor Fraud

Central

Heavily

Limited

Limited districts

Average

Eastern

Heavily

Heavily

Average

Average

Western

Heavily

Heavily

Massively, in all districts

Average

Northern

Enormously

Heavily

Average

Average

In most cities it was difficult to stuff the ballot-boxes, so the effect of voter intimidation becomes more clear. Gulu City shows how enormous the intimidation was up north, as is supported by the statements in our Chapter on the North. Ballot box stuffing is indicated by high turnout & high percentage of Museveni votes. In the top right of the diagram (courtesy Melina Platas) we do not only see Western districts, but also Northern districts such as Amudat” (Schoonderwoed, P: 9, 2021).

There are now saying that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the President lost Baganda (Central Region) in this election. However, by the state of things. The evidence coming forward proves only that the results there are more close the reality. As the rigging was as extensive as in the other regions. This means, they deliberately gave up a part and knew the rigging elsewhere would secure the victory anyway.

A very interesting finding of the rigging was the finding on page 57, which says:

Since the ‘election fingerprint’ of these 3 elections is similar to the fingerprints identified as fraudulent by Peter Klimek et al we can apply their conclusion that the Ugandan elections results of 2011, 2016 and 2021 do not represent the will of the people. When the authors designed these fingerprints they assumed that the numbers would always be between 0 and 100. However, in fraud every number is possible. Although the tally sheets do not show any turnouts of over 100% (it’s prevented by the software), an inspection of the Declaration of Results (DoR) forms show that in many cases of ballot box stuffing ‘overstuffing’ took place and the DoR form shows more ballots casted than registered voters” (Schoonderwoed, P: 57-58, 2021).

This here just shows the algorithm and the difference numbers through the process of counting the ballots doesn’t add up. There are more casted ballots than registered voters. That is just the proof of the misgivings of this election and how it was predetermined. When this sort of malpractice is securing one man to “win”.

The main contributor to the rigging of these elections was ballot box stuffing. 409 polling stations across Uganda saw a 100% voter turnout, which is impossible give that the voter register is fixed 10 months before the elections. A total of 1333 polling stations had a voter turnout of 90% and according to election experts that is not possible under free & fair elections. Scientific research is presented in the form of election fingerprints that show that the correlation of high voter turnout and high Museveni scores is typical for rigged elections such as in Uganda and Russia” (Schoonderwoed, P: 76, 2021).

This here shows the proof and the systematic rigging. This is just the technical aspect of it. Not all the other techniques used, which is important, but the end-game of any election is the numbers-game. Where the winner takes all and the majority matters. An rigged election just needs the numbers, but not the true will of the general public or the voters. That is the gist of it.

A nation wide comparison of DoRs collected by UVote and official tally results show over 120 polling stations where the DoRs were illegally changed or fraudulent. One such DoR for the Nebbi Anyang polling station received international attention after the Electoral Commission denied that 84 Kyagulanyi votes were changed into 8 Kyagulanyi vote” (Schoonderwoed, P: 77, 2021).

This here is just a final one and shows the acts being made by the state to ensure another term for the incumbent. There was not other way to see this. The “Rigged” Report is very clear and addresses the significant actions made and what it resulted in.

We know today that it went into as usual, that every five years Museveni swears himself in at Kololo Independence Grounds on the 12th May of the election year. That happened today because of the “legitimacy” the recent election gave him. Though the Report shows that he stole and bashes himself in glory of rigging an election. That is really tragic, but the Report also states facts many of us has said. That this regime rigged the 2011 and 2016 as well and the ‘election fingerprint’ evidence shows that.

So, if people are saying “Museveni is not my President”. I understand them. This election is yet another one he rigged to rule supreme. He doesn’t have the love of the people, but is elected by the algorithm, ghosts and goats, not voters as he should have been. However, that is not important when you value guns, arms and heavy weaponry over the public. That is why the Report is important to show the way the regime did it and prove it to the whole world to see. Peace.