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22 November 2025

A vicious NUP; OTHER OPPOSITION LEADERS AT THE STAKE

For good measure, we should begin to like the fight that the National Unity Platform (NUP) has taken to the political courtyard of some opposition figures who have never had kind words for NRM and President Museveni’s leadership. Probably it is becoming pointless to keep arguing with strange fools on the internet. But unfortunately, it is also now the main channel for public communication in a rapidly changing world. A stranger, probably a bot, with a smartphone and some data, lampooning people, some proven experts in their own field. The internet has made public debate so fraught with almost everyone shouting angrily, and the election campaigns making it even worse especially if you treat every opinion seriously. It all started with the now infamous five hundred million shillings said to have been dubiously awarded to parliamentary commissioners almost five years ago as service award, even before they had completed one year on the job. Section of the leadership of the National Unity Platform (NUP), used that opportunity to cut the sculp of its then Leader of Opposition in Parliament (LoP), Mathias Nsamba Mpuuga. After a year-long dispute, NUP dismissed Mpuuga, who in-turn promptly founded his own political party now called the Democratic Front (DF), taking along with him a few NUP MPs among them the loud Abed Bwanika, Micheal Kakembo Mbwatekamwa, and Juliet Nakabuye Kakande who had seen the purge coming. Those who were his known allies within NUP, like Medard Lubega Ssegona, Joyce Bagala, among others although unhappy with the way Mpuuga was treated, grew cold-feet and stayed back hoping to pick NUP tickets for the ongoing parliamentary elections only to be kicked in the teeth by the vicious team now firmly in control. On social media, NUP trawls have gone bare knuckles, putting up a meme of a dog, mimicking Ssegona. In his constituency, they seem to have organised and staging hostile groups of presumed residents and voters who don’t even permit to address his own public rallies. But as cowardly pretenders, who sought to exploit Robert Kyagulanyi’s abrupt political rise for their own selfish gains, they have now found themselves in a difficult position unable to publicly and directly challenge his political methods of work. And while they loathe him, they nearby, fear to tackle him for fear of losing votes among his loyal constituents, and so have chosen to lie low in humiliation. The old adage, when you keep a dog, learn to have stick has not helped them. Muwanga Kivumbi and Betty Nambooze are now the whistle-dogs of the masterclass of the dark art, hired to demolish whoever tries to raise their political head, and appear to salivate holding the machete. The two are hitting a new low bar in tribal chauvinism, insults, political abrasion, vulgarity and whatever-else accompanies it. Both are running past their own destinations. And, they also have trawls on various social media platforms who repeat, amply and dredge up the worst possible that their rivals could have ever said or done ages back, just to ensure the dirt is flushed down the toilet. It appears they do not appreciate the possibility that where reasonable men disagree there may be some useful truth on both sides even if it is truth only as each one of them sees. It is unlikely that someone will come soon to save this opposition from the Svengalis. Let us all face it, at this rate, there should be no point putting up with NUP decline. And so as the adage goes, they made their bed, and should sleep in it. Mpuuga, Ssegona, Bwanika, Lubega Mukaku, Michael Mabiike, Ssemujju Nganda and Joyce Bagala should live with the effects of Kyagulunyi-mania.

BY OFWONO OPONDO
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21 November 2025

EC’S BYABAKAMA MUGENYI: STAY RESOLUTE AND IGNORE BLACKMAIL

Vladimir Ilyich Ulyanov, better known as Lenin, once defined political blackmail as “the threat of exposing, or the actual exposure, of true, but more often invented, stories to cause an opponent political damage, of slandering him, or of depriving him of the possibility of engaging in political activity.” His words ring true today as Uganda’s Independent Electoral Commission (EC) faces a wave of unwarranted attacks. In recent days, the EC has come under intense criticism after declaring Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro, MP-elect for Nebbi District, unopposed on November 13, 2026. This followed the Commission’s decision to nullify the nomination of her sole challenger, Ms. Mercy Rebecca Abedican of the National Unity Platform (NUP). Nyamutoro currently serves as Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development. Abedican, carrying the NUP flag, fell into trouble after a petitionfiled by one of Nyamutoro’s supporters, who alleged that several of the nominators she submitted had never consented to endorse her. Their signatures were reportedly forged, and in an even more troubling twist, some of those listed were registered supporters of the National Resistance Movement (NRM). The allegations were later confirmed. One Godfrey Ongeria testified before the EC Tribunal that he did not nominate Abedican, his signature was forged, and he was, in fact, an NRM member. With evidence proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the signatures had been falsified, the EC Tribunal had no legal alternative but to cancel Abedican’s nomination and declare Nyamutoro unopposed. What followed was a predictable storm: accusations, insults, and political outrage from NUP sympathizers and select civil society actors who have made a habit of shouting down any decision that does not favour them. Their argument,recycled at every opportunity, is that the EC is “in bed” with the ruling NRM to block opposition candidates.Yet the facts do not support their narrative. Just days earlier, on November 5, the EC also declared Mr. Ofwono Opondo unopposed after his opponent, Mr. Mpande Joram Kigenyi of the Democratic Party (DP), conceded and withdrew his candidature. Kigenyi was also found guilty of forging signatures and obtaining consent from ten of his nominators. The rules were applied consistently, regardless of political party. The Electoral Commission must not be intimidated or pressured into abandoning its responsibility to uphold the law and ensure fraudulent candidates do not make it to the ballot. There appears to be a deliberate and orchestrated effort, particularly among elements within NUP and certain activists, to blackmail the Commission and discourage strict adherence to electoral procedures. It is incumbent upon political parties themselves to conduct due diligence before endorsing candidates. Article 61(1)(f) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda empowers the EC to hear and determine election complaints arising before and during polling. The EC is therefore fully within its mandate. Unfortunately, a distorted political culture has taken root in Uganda’s political class. Too many aspirants are becoming shameless blackmailers, to avoidlegal requirements, yet demanding privileges. One cannot aspire to public office while engaging in forgery and still expect to be treated as a victim. The requirements set by the EC are designed to test integrity; if one cannot meet these basic standards, they cannot be trusted with public leadership. Those now attacking the EC, particularly some opposition actors and civil society organisations, appear to have abandoned any sense of shame. What exactly did they expect the EC to do? Ignore evidence of fraud? Look away when procedures are blatantly violated? If the Commission had done so, it would have violated the law. Political blackmail has become a thriving enterprise in this country. Hours of radio and television airtime are spent on indiscipline masquerading as political analysis. Many of these critics contribute nothing to national progress but dominate public platforms with noise and conspiracy theories. It is time the media denied space to such trivial schemers, whose only interest is to create chaos rather than build the nation. Doing so would offer a lesson to others who may be tempted to follow their path. Uganda urgently needs a shift in political culture,one that rewards diligence, integrity, and respect for the law. All political actors must be held to the same standard. And the Electoral Commission must remain steadfast, resist blackmail, and continue enforcing electoral laws without fear or favour. The writer is Ag. Executive Director Uganda Media Centre

BY OBED KATUREEBE
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20 November 2025

CRIMINAL ELEMENTS SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO SPOIL OUR PEACEFUL ELECTION

We have entered week seven of the presidential campaigns and perhaps the first week for the parliamentary ones. So far, we are witnessing a global gold-standard peaceful election, regardless of a few isolated cases which must be addressed immediately so that we maintain this peaceful election which some have termed as a boring election without vibe. I believe that those who are complaining of having a boring election are the ones who have been beneficiaries of violence in one way or another. In the previous elections, security operatives spent a lot of resources countering rioters, but right now, it seems that the new campaigning strategy has kept them wondering. The past elections, where violence was witnessed, became the major source of news for international media houses with shocking headlines. However, due to the silent campaigns we are experiencing, international journalists have not shown much interest in covering presidential candidates, and those who are already in the country are almost flying back due to lack of what to write about. I hear that some wake up, test their cameras so that the shutters do not rust, and then put them back in their bags. Others have become good friends of Uganda by visiting our tourism sites and taking pictures that promote the Pearl of Africa. After this election, we are likely to witness a number of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) closing for failure to find a suitable financing priority from their donors, who are more interested in chaos and violence. To the opposition candidates and their bloggers, I know that it is a total loss on their side. In the last campaigns, the National Unity Platform presidential candidate had a manifesto full of lamentations, which our security personnel contributed to greatly through their unprofessional handling of the situation. His message was more focused on the NRM candidate and his family, not on what he planned to do for the people. The continuous mistakes by our security personnel made him compile all the video clips and produce a film that won him international accolades. If all goes well, Bobi Wine might fail even to get a 10-minute clip to sell to his funders at the end of the elections. However, I think Bobi Wine predicted that this time round he might struggle to remain relevant. That is why he thought it wise to import violence through our known chaos experts, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, from Kenya. Fortunately, our alert intelligence system was swift and handled them in Kireka while they were on Hon. Kyagulanyi’s political activity. It is a shame that these two Kenyan brothers felt more concerned and planned to indulge in the politics of a sovereign country like Uganda. Had it not been for the good diplomatic relationship Uganda and Kenya share, these two brothers would have faced the law. However, they were released on Saturday and are now safely back in their country. I would like to inform them that Uganda will not tolerate any kind of violence import or trading; therefore, they do not have any market for their product—‘chaos’. Back to Uganda, the wayward enthusiasts and supporters of different political parties should not be coerced into spoiling this peaceful and silent election. A few cases of individual confrontation and indiscipline must be strongly condemned. The enthusiastic NRM supporters shouldn’t even give Kyagulanyi attention, whether he moves with a thousand people to the rally grounds, it is okay. Any provocation on him only awakens him to find something to say or maybe to attract the attention of the international media, which had deserted him for lack of newsworthiness in his message. We are on the brink of a new era in Uganda’s electioneering process. A fully and seamlessly peaceful election is not just possible, it is happening right now. We should remain peaceful; it is just two months to go, and the matter will be settled at the ballot.

SERUMAGA DAVID
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18 November 2025

WHY PRESIDENT MUSEVENIS COMMENT ABOUT THE INDIAN OCEAN MATTERS

When President Yoweri Museveni recently remarked that the Indian Ocean “belongs to all of us” and hinted that future tensions could arise over access, reactions ranged from laughter to concern. But beneath the headlines was a serious point often lost in the noise: being landlocked is not a neutral geographic fact. It carries profound economic costs, political risks, and historical roots that many rarely consider. More importantly—and this is the core of Museveni’s argument—access to the sea isn’t just a matter of negotiation or goodwill. It is a right recognised and protected by international law. A Problem Africa Didn’t Create To understand why this matters, we must return to 1884–85, when European powers sat in Berlin and carved up a continent without African input. Borders were drawn with straight lines and rulers, ignoring existing trade routes, ethnic communities, and natural geography. Some territories were granted ports and open ocean access. Others—like Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the DRC—were locked inland. That colonial map still dictates today’s reality. Consider this: · 16 African countries are landlocked · They face higher transport costs and slower trade · Their economies depend on their neighbours’ infrastructure and political stability Landlocked status is more than geography—it is an active legacy that stifles growth, complicates diplomacy, and undermines economic sovereignty. The Real Cost of Being Landlocked In a world where nearly 90% of trade travels by sea, countries without ports operate at a structural disadvantage. They face: · Higher shipping and insurance costs · Longer delays for imports and exports · Reduced competitiveness on the global stage · Vulnerability to political disputes with transit nations Uganda learned this lesson starkly in 1986 when Kenya briefly closed the border. Overnight, Uganda’s primary trade route through Mombasa was severed. Though not a single shot was fired, the economic squeeze was immediate and severe. Incidents like that underscore Museveni’s central point: a nation’s economic lifeline should not depend on temporary goodwill or the political mood of a neighbour. It must be systematic, reliable, and guaranteed. The Legal Blueprint: A Right, Not a Favour When Museveni invoked international law, he wasn’t improvising. He was pointing to a century-old global commitment designed to prevent the very tensions he warned about. Here’s what the law actually says: 1. The Barcelona Convention (1921): The Foundation Established in the aftermath of World War I,this convention introduced the foundational principle of “freedom of transit.” In simple terms, it states that if your neighbour has a coast and you don’t, they must allow your goods to pass through fairly and without obstruction. It framed coastal access not as a privilege but as a responsibility to the hinterland. 2. UNCLOS (1982): The Ocean’s Constitution The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea modernised and strengthened these rights.For landlocked countries, Part X (Articles 124–132) is crucial. · Article 125 establishes that landlocked states "have the right of access to and from the sea." · Coastal states are forbidden from discriminating or imposing special taxes solely for transit. · The law obligates nations to cooperate in "good faith" to establish transit agreements. This isn’t a mere suggestion—it’s a binding principle of international law. 3. WTO Rules (GATT Article V): The Enforcement Tool The World Trade Organization adds enforceable teeth to these rights.It mandates that there be no unnecessary delays, discriminatory charges, or restrictions on goods in transit. If a coastal country illegally blocks or hinders trade, it isn’t just being unfriendly—it’s violating global trade law and can face formal disputes. Museveni’s point is therefore legally sound: the world has already agreed on the principle. The struggle is in its execution. The Gap Between Law and Reality This is where the frustration truly lies. The right exists on paper, but its implementation hinges on infrastructure, efficiency, and consistent political will. Goods still face delays at borders, unpredictable fees, and the risk of political disruption. Museveni’s candid tone, therefore, is a strategic move. It shifts the conversation from “Should Uganda have access?” to the more pressing question: “We already have the right—so when will it function smoothly and predictably?” A Reassuring Response—and a Path Forward In a testament to regional maturity, Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, responded with exactly the right spirit: calm, clear, and cooperative. He reaffirmed that Uganda’s access to the Indian Ocean is guaranteed. This reassurance is significant. It signals a shared understanding that the future of East Africa depends on interconnection, not isolation. A Better Future: Connected, Not Confined If the East African Community continues to deepen its integration—through shared port infrastructure, harmonised customs, and a future political federation—the term “landlocked” will become obsolete for its member states. They will be “sea-linked,” much like nations in the European Union, where German industry relies on Dutch and Belgian ports as seamlessly as its own. In such a future, Museveni’s comment won’t sound controversial. It will sound obvious. The Bigger Message President Museveni was not joking, threatening, or demanding ownership of a coastline. He was issuing a reminder of three fundamental truths: 1. Africa’s borders were not drawn for African prosperity. 2. International law already protects the right to sea access. 3. Regional unity—not rivalry—is the only path to secure prosperity for all. Kenya’s calm and assured response shows that this understanding is already taking root. The task now is to translate this principle and goodwill into tangible systems—predictable, permanent, and protected—so that access to the ocean is never again a subject of debate, but a guaranteed foundation of our shared economic destiny. Because in the end, the Indian Ocean does not belong to one nation. It belongs to the future we choose to build together.

PEACE ANKUNDA
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15 November 2025

MUSEVENI SELLING MESSAGE OF PEACE, ACHIEVEMENTS, WEALTH CREATION AND HOPE

Today, the presidential election campaign trail is in its eighth week, and NRM presidential candidate, Yoweri Tibuhaburwa Kaguta Museveni remains the leading contender, selling message of peace, stability, achievements, perseverance and hope. Museveni is routing for the consolidation, protection, and expansion of transformational gains that Ugandans have individually and collectively made over the last four decades. Museveni’s message is consistently on health, education and wealth for all Ugandans. And clearly, NRM now already with eleven MPs declared unopposed by the Independent Electoral Commission out of a house of 529 seats after the closure of nominations three weeks ago, is in an unassailable position to continue as the dominant party in the next parliament. Yours truly, this columnist, is among the bunch of the eleven elected unopposed, as MP for Older Persons Eastern Region covering forty districts in Busoga, Bukedi, Bugisu, Sebei, and Teso. Whatever else you may be hearing and seeing could only be background noise and sideshows to decorate this season’s democratic process The reception, campaigns, political, and electoral standing in Teso, Karamoja, Bugisu, Sebei and Bukedi regions stomped this week, like Lango, Acholi and West Nile covered earlier, indicate without any exaggeration that Museveni and NRM will again sweep clean the polls come January 2026. Nevertheless, NRM campaigners must hold the rope-end tight, persuasively engage with Ugandans to ensure that the ground is firm and get the voters to the ballot boxes on polling day 15 January. As for the opposition candidates, their collective manifesto seems to be anti-Museveni rhetoric, with Mugisha Muntu (ANT), Mubarak Munyagwa, Elton Joseph Mabirizi lost in the woods, and if it were not for barren brevity, they would have called off their respective campaigns, but are still holding out stiff necks. Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC) and Robert Kyagulanyi a.k.a. Bobi Wine (NUP), in the absence of police interference and their own orchestrated violence to enlist cheap media headline, are seen to be only hanging by a thread. Some, including the so-called democracy activists are murmuring and wondering aloud that the presidential campaigns have been dull. In fact many civic organizations that pass for election observers cannot justify their existence and are finding difficulties to attract funding. The US and European diplomatic missions in Uganda, too, could be filing nothing salacious about the ongoing elections because there are no arrests, teargas and street-battles against lawless opposition groups. Ugandan journalists and their media outlets also seem bored and cannot build a name because many have failed to understand the reasons for the political calmness this time round. Indeed, some could be gnashing for a storm after calm, but the security agencies should deny them that evil wish. Others like Kyagulanyi, is mostly selling political fetish (talisman), giving his gullible audiences, especially the young people, that success comes easily, without hard, creative, innovative, consistent and disciplined purposeful endevours. But luckily, Kyagulanyi’s message is no longer a tiding wave. Ugandans having observed him since 2021, he and his group are falling on the proverbial barren soils. Some pundits consider the possibility of Kyagulanyi as replacement of Yoweri Museveni, however remotely, as an embarrassment to, and failure of the NRM. And for some reason, Mugisha Muntu, a former army commander, well over twenty-seven years ago, and in spite of being touted by some people as one of the most disciplined, and doing his second bid for the presidency, has failed to gain credible electoral traction. It is not very clear what Muntu stands for in this election. At his rate, Munto will be lucky to be beaten to the fourth position behind his former tormentor, Nandala Mafabi when both were still in FDC. As Museveni winds up Bukedi, indications are bright that he will again carry the region in 2026 as has done previously.

BY OFWONO OPONDO
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14 November 2025

UPC’S AKENA’S BLAME GAMES OVER HIS PRESIDENTIAL AMBITIONS SOUND CHILDISH

UPC’s Akena’s Blame Games Over His Presidential Ambitions Sound Childish By Obed K Katureebe The contested Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) President General, Hon. Jimmy Akena, has embarked on a campaign of blaming President Yoweri Museveni for his recent political misfortunes. Akena missed the nomination deadline to stand as a presidential candidate for the 2025/26 elections due to a court ruling questioning his legitimacy as UPC party president. This ruling followed a petition filed by senior UPC officials, Joseph Othieno and Dennis Enap, who challenged his continued stay in office beyond the constitutionally mandated two five-year terms. Strangely, after this internal party dispute, Hon. Akena has resorted to accusing President Museveni of frustrating his presidential ambitions and undermining Uganda’s oldest political party. In what many observers consider exaggerated claims, he has publicly urged voters in the Lango Sub-region to reject President Museveni in the upcoming January 15, 2026, elections. In a communication dated September 22, the Electoral Commission (EC) clarified that Akena’s term as UPC President had expired on August 1, 2025, and therefore, he lacked the mandate to stand as the party’s flagbearer. Akena’s troubles were engineered by his own party colleagues, who sought to prevent his attempts to amend the party constitution and secure a third term. To them, Akena is running UPC as though it were his father’s personal estate. Speaking in Lira City during a homecoming event arranged by some loyalists, Akena accused the government of interfering with institutions to weaken UPC’s influence. These comments followed the EC’s decision to disqualify him and other UPC leaders from taking part in the presidential elections. Addressing supporters for the first time since the ruling, Akena insisted that his struggle is far from over. “Today, I decided to start with a gospel song, and the message is that my tomorrow must be greater than today. Whatever they do to me, whatever they say, I am moving ahead for a better tomorrow,” Akena said. He then knelt during the national anthem in protest, urging UPC supporters to emulate the gesture as a symbol of resistance. He further claimed that he alone held the “MasterCard” capable of denying President Museveni the 50+1 victory required for an outright win. First and foremost, Akena does not own the mind and soul of the people of Lango. He seems trapped in the shadow of his late father’s near-cult-like status during his years as President of Uganda. Hon. Akena has failed to recognize that his father’s generation is long gone. Today’s voters rely on their own judgment, and they know too well what President Museveni has done for the Lango Sub-region. This is demonstrated by the overwhelming NRM victory in the 2021 general elections, where the party secured over 70% of the vote. It is therefore unlikely that Lango will be swayed by Akena’s misleading rhetoric. Akena’s blame game amounts to pure escapism. No sensible Ugandan can accept such excuses. What Akena owes his party and the nation is an apologyfirst, for violating the UPC constitution, and second, for causing the internal turmoil that left the party without a presidential candidate in the 2025 general elections. To salvage his image, Akena and his legal team have now filed a petition challenging the Electoral Commission’s decision in hopes of being reinstated as the legitimate party president and included on the ballot paper. How this will be achieved remains uncertain, given that reports indicate presidential ballot papers are already being printed. Like many leaders on the continent, Hon. Akena seems to have an inflated perception of himself, and the arrogance that accompanies it appears to have consumed him. He imagines that things must always bend to his will. His attempts to run UPC as his personal enterprise lie at the heart of the party’s current crisis. Leaders of his generation must demonstrate discipline and integrity, as they serve as role models for many who look up to them. Yet Akena insists that the government orchestrated his downfall because of his “oppositionism.” Though Akena is undeniably a prominent son of Lango, he must work on his attitude and behavioural competencies. These qualities have been the downfall of many public figures, and Akena appears no exception. Whatever direction this episode takes, Akenaand others who think like himshould draw important lessons. Hon. Jimmy Akena should simply eat the humble pie and accept his fate. Making a mistake is human, but insisting on that mistake becomes a grave offense. We all err, but we must learn to take responsibility and, where necessary, offer a sincere apology. Akena, this is one of those moments where one cannot wriggle out through blame or theatrics. The writer is the Acting Executive Director, Uganda Media Centre

BY OBED KATUREEBE
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14 November 2025

UPC’S AKENA’S BLAME GAMES OVER HIS PRESIDENTIAL AMBITIONS SOUND CHILDISH

The contested Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) President General, Hon. Jimmy Akena, has embarked on a campaign of blaming President Yoweri Museveni for his recent political misfortunes. Akena missed the nomination deadline to stand as a presidential candidate for the 2025/26 elections due to a court ruling questioning his legitimacy as UPC party president. This ruling followed a petition filed by senior UPC officials, Joseph Othieno and Dennis Enap, who challenged his continued stay in office beyond the constitutionally mandated two five-year terms. Strangely, after this internal party dispute, Hon. Akena has resorted to accusing President Museveni of frustrating his presidential ambitions and undermining Uganda’s oldest political party. In what many observers consider exaggerated claims, he has publicly urged voters in the Lango Sub-region to reject President Museveni in the upcoming January 15, 2026, elections. In a communication dated September 22, the Electoral Commission (EC) clarified that Akena’s term as UPC President had expired on August 1, 2025, and therefore, he lacked the mandate to stand as the party’s flagbearer. Akena’s troubles were engineered by his own party colleagues, who sought to prevent his attempts to amend the party constitution and secure a third term. To them, Akena is running UPC as though it were his father’s personal estate. Speaking in Lira City during a homecoming event arranged by some loyalists, Akena accused the government of interfering with institutions to weaken UPC’s influence. These comments followed the EC’s decision to disqualify him and other UPC leaders from taking part in the presidential elections. Addressing supporters for the first time since the ruling, Akena insisted that his struggle is far from over. “Today, I decided to start with a gospel song, and the message is that my tomorrow must be greater than today. Whatever they do to me, whatever they say, I am moving ahead for a better tomorrow,” Akena said. He then knelt during the national anthem in protest, urging UPC supporters to emulate the gesture as a symbol of resistance. He further claimed that he alone held the “MasterCard” capable of denying President Museveni the 50+1 victory required for an outright win. First and foremost, Akena does not own the mind and soul of the people of Lango. He seems trapped in the shadow of his late father’s near-cult-like status during his years as President of Uganda. Hon. Akena has failed to recognize that his father’s generation is long gone. Today’s voters rely on their own judgment, and they know too well what President Museveni has done for the Lango Sub-region. This is demonstrated by the overwhelming NRM victory in the 2021 general elections, where the party secured over 70% of the vote. It is therefore unlikely that Lango will be swayed by Akena’s misleading rhetoric. Akena’s blame game amounts to pure escapism. No sensible Ugandan can accept such excuses. What Akena owes his party and the nation is an apologyfirst, for violating the UPC constitution, and second, for causing the internal turmoil that left the party without a presidential candidate in the 2025 general elections. To salvage his image, Akena and his legal team have now filed a petition challenging the Electoral Commission’s decision in hopes of being reinstated as the legitimate party president and included on the ballot paper. How this will be achieved remains uncertain, given that reports indicate presidential ballot papers are already being printed. Like many leaders on the continent, Hon. Akena seems to have an inflated perception of himself, and the arrogance that accompanies it appears to have consumed him. He imagines that things must always bend to his will. His attempts to run UPC as his personal enterprise lie at the heart of the party’s current crisis. Leaders of his generation must demonstrate discipline and integrity, as they serve as role models for many who look up to them. Yet Akena insists that the government orchestrated his downfall because of his “oppositionism.” Though Akena is undeniably a prominent son of Lango, he must work on his attitude and behavioural competencies. These qualities have been the downfall of many public figures, and Akena appears no exception. Whatever direction this episode takes, Akenaand others who think like himshould draw important lessons. Hon. Jimmy Akena should simply eat the humble pie and accept his fate. Making a mistake is human, but insisting on that mistake becomes a grave offense. We all err, but we must learn to take responsibility and, where necessary, offer a sincere apology. Akena, this is one of those moments where one cannot wriggle out through blame or theatrics. The writer is the Acting Executive Director, Uganda Media Centre

BY OBED KATUREEBE
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08 November 2025

NRM DELIVERING PROGRESS IN LANGO (2021–2026)

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Government continues to transform lives across the Lango sub-region through visible progress in wealth creation, education, health, and infrastructure. From Amolatar to Kwania, communities are benefiting from improved livelihoods and expanded access to essential services as Uganda advances toward Vision 2040. Amolatar Over UGX 26.1 billion has been invested through the Parish Development Model (PDM), benefiting 26,000 individuals in 1,273 enterprise groups. Farmers like Opeto Tonny and Ongom Joshua have expanded their goat and poultry farms, demonstrating the PDM’s impact on household income. The Emyooga Programme has injected UGX 2.97 billion into 35 Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs), serving nearly 2,000 members, while the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP) has supported 59 youth groups with UGX 287 million, creating new employment opportunities. Amolatar hosts 53 Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools, 8 Universal Secondary Education (USE) schools, and one technical institute, serving over 32,000 learners. Upgraded health centres, a new ambulance, and modern maternity wards have improved healthcare. Partnerships with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) introduced three solar-powered irrigation systems and a valley tank, enhancing food production and security. Dokolo Dokolo has received UGX 21.9 billion through PDM, supporting 17,700 enterprise groups. The Senior Citizens Grant now reaches 8,000 older persons, while the Agriculture Cluster Development Project (ACDP) has boosted post-harvest handling. Three new Seed Secondary Schools, located at Okwongodul Lakeside, Batta, and Adeknino, were built under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (UGIFT) programme. These schools provide modern classrooms and laboratories to over 4,500 learners. Health services have expanded with the addition of seven upgraded facilities, including a new maternity ward at Abalang Health Centre III, and malaria cases have been reduced by over 30% through annual mosquito net distribution. Improved roads and a UGX 1.3 billion investment in water and sanitation have increased access to clean water. The UGX 14 billion Kabalega–Mwanga Historical Site Project is positioning Dokolo as a new tourism hub in Northern Uganda. Alebtong Over UGX 18.4 billion has been disbursed through the PDM, alongside funds from Emyooga, YLP, and the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP), supporting 15,000 households in agriculture and small business. Five new Seed Secondary Schools in Awei, Angetta, Abia, Adwir, and Amugu now serve 6,000 learners, reducing dropout rates. The district has one Health Centre IV, ten Health Centre IIIs, and four Health Centre IIs, with the addition of new staff housing and ambulances enhancing healthcare delivery. Road rehabilitation under the UGX 1.3 billion Road Fund has enhanced connectivity, while electricity access now covers seven sub-counties and four town councils. Piped water systems in Amugu, Abako, and Alebtong Town Councils provide clean water to 12,000 residents. Otuke Since 2022, UGX 16 billion has been invested through the PDM, benefiting 52 SACCOs and 16,000 individuals. Complementary programs such as Emyooga, YLP, UWEP, and UGIFT have expanded opportunities for women, youth, and farmers. Otuke now hosts new Seed Secondary Schools and a technical institute in Okwang, providing vocational training to 2,000 learners. Barjobi Health Centre III was upgraded to Health Centre IV with a new operating theatre. Over 108 kilometres of roads have been opened, rural electrification now reaches nine sub-counties, and enhanced security operations have significantly reduced cattle rustling, thereby restoring peace and economic activity. Kwania Kwania has channelled UGX 12.5 billion through the PDM, empowering 12,000 households engaged in poultry and livestock. Additional support from Emyooga, YLP, and UWEP has strengthened small enterprises and created new income streams. Two new Seed Secondary Schools in Aduku and Abongomola now accommodate 3,800 students, increasing enrolment and reducing dropouts, especially among children from fishing communities. Conclusion Across Lango, the NRM Government’s investments between 2021 and 2026 reflect its commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. With expanded education, healthcare, roads, and enterprise support, the region stands as a model of community empowerment and resilience. Every new school, health centre, and enterprise tells a story of steady progress and shared prosperity under the NRM Government. The Writer is a Communication Officer – Ministry of ICT & National Guidance

By Fiona Luboga
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08 November 2025

GENZ COPYCATS: AN EMERGING CRIMINAL THREAT TO DEMOCRACY

There is an emerging fashionable trend mimicking radical political activism by the so-called GenZs, seeking to turn their countries upside-down, morphing into criminal gangs as seen last year in Kenya, and this week in Tanzania taking advantage of election fallouts. During the 2020-2021 Uganda election, a group led by NUP purveyors, tried to create anarchy through street battles with the police, army and publicly assaulting, real or perceived political rivals but the goons were eventually neutralized through a hard tackle. They have now returned in this election on mantra “ Protest vote” foolishly hoping to use intimidation, blackmail and necked violence to have their way even when Ugandans may say no to them at the ballot box. In Kenya, following a tightly fought general election pitting William Somei Ruto, and Raila Amolo Odinga, President Ruto, the winner, introduced an economic reform law to spur revenue collection, which the political elite opposed, and tried to exploit youth concerns to oust a democratically elected government. For weeks, security forces in Kenya fought running battles with criminal gangs posing as GenZs sowing mayhem, wanton destruction and burning down whatever came to their sight. And they wrecked all this havoc, including ransacking parliament even after President Ruto withdrew the controversial legislation, and instead demanded his political scalp. The youths forcefully tore-down parliament parameter wall, ransacked it and forced a sitting to flee, all in the name of being ‘aggrieved’ with the status qou, yet destroying the very foundation of their country’s existence, attempting to rend Kenya ungovernable. It took heavy-brutal-handedness for calm to be restored in East Africa’s largest economy, and in its trail the loss of innocent lives, bloodshed, and sowing the seeds of a culture of impunity by the young people, which has now been wholesomely copied in Tanzania. Tanzania, that has been stable, secure, peaceful, and a good example for the whole of Africa, is now shaken to the core, but Tanzania must never let to fail like other African countries under whatever reason. While bad policies and governance should be opposed and vigorously challenged by citizens, old and young, it is counter-productive for the so-called aggrieved to burn down their countries particularly as they are egged on by the neo-colonial forces seeking to keep Africa underground. It appears that the American and European meddlers into Africa, having failed with the so-called Arab Spring of fifteen years ago, that distablised northern African, and sowed fire and ash, sending hundreds of thousands to death on the high seas towards Europe, have not been content, and are now returning through instigating the GenZs. Under the diabolical guise of spreading democracy, clean elections, good governance, human rights, quality jobs, and equitable prosperity which they never bequeathed when they were firmly in control as the colonialists for seven decades, they now return but only as pretenders falsely believing that Africans are too stupid to see through the scheme. African leaders and elders owe their people deals, but the GenZs should never allow themselves to be exploited or used to once again destroy, subjugate, and misdirect Africa’s emerging renaissance. We should always remember that those shenanigans took advantaged of our fore-fathers using shades of religion to capture and maintain control of our collective minds, and have so succeeded in portraying Africans as inferior in every respect. Africa, and Uganda in particular should say never-again, to foreign meddlers whatever sweetener they may offer. Uganda, has steadily emerged from deep black holes after four decades of political violence, social and economic decadence with so much blood poured down public spaces that we should learn to resolve disagreements peacefully. Uganda GenZs, both in rural and urban ought to know the opportunities they seek cannot be brought through violence, and hence should avoid the language of destruction.

BY OFWONO OPONDO
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07 November 2025

THE BENEFITS THAT THE NRM AIMS TO SAFEGUARD

Our opposition colleagues have raised concerns regarding the accomplishments that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) asserts it will maintain in the upcoming term if re-elected. The opposition contends that there are no achievements worth safeguarding. While their assertions may hold some truth, particularly in light of the ongoing unresolved issues, it is inaccurate to claim that the ruling party has not made any advancements over the past forty years. It is crucial to recognize the facts and acknowledge contributions where they are warranted. I was born at a time when the ruling party had just assumed power; thus, my knowledge is somewhat limited. Nevertheless, accounts from witnesses and research reveal that insecurity was rampant in Uganda and other African nations. Ugandans, along with numerous other Africans, lived in trepidation prior to the NRM's ascension to power. Following its rise, the NRM initiated efforts to establish peace, stability, and security by overcoming armed opposition factions such as the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), Alice Lakwena's Holy Spirit Movement, and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). It established a disciplined, professional, and community-oriented force (UPDF) that refrains from seizing citizens' property, in contrast to the previous military regime. The NRM has fostered regional stability through peacekeeping and security operations, particularly in Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and has actively participated in regional efforts to combat insurgent groups. Additionally, it spearheaded disarmament initiatives, especially in the Karamoja sub-region, to mitigate cattle rustling and improve local security. Currently, the stability, peace, and security within the country enable individuals to travel freely at any time without interruptions, and businesses function beyond standard hours, cultivating a sense of safety and stability. The promotion of peace, stability, and security has facilitated the infrastructure development across multiple transport modes that includes roads, air, water and railway. As of September 2025, Uganda has approximately 6,287 kilometres of paved (tarmac) roads. These roads are essential to the national road network, connecting various borders of the country. The government is continuously improving and expanding paved roadways to connect all regions of the country, even though a significant portion of the national network remains unpaved. The focus is on enhancing the paved road infrastructure through both new constructions and restoration initiatives. In the water transport sector, significant ports are undergoing upgrades, and the national ferry network is being expanded. Projects include the Bukasa Port Development, Port Bell, and the rehabilitation of Jinja Pier. The government operates a fleet of 13 ferries on lakes and rivers such as Lake Victoria and the River Nile. New ferries, including the MV Sigulu, have been introduced to connect remote areas and districts, including those surrounding Lake Bisina. Additionally, the MV Kaawa cargo ship was rehabilitated with support from the World Bank to enhance cargo transport on a vital triangular route. Uganda's aviation sector has seen considerable infrastructure improvements at Entebbe and various other airports, the reestablishment of the national carrier (Uganda Airlines), and a steady increase in both passenger and freight traffic. Entebbe International Airport is being expanded to raise its capacity from 2.0 million to 3.5 million passengers, with a renovated terminal and a new cargo terminal already in operation. A second airport in Hoima is under construction to support oil, tourism, and agriculture. Upcountry aerodromes such as Kisoro, Gulu, and Arua are being upgraded to enhance connectivity and tourism. The national airline has improved by acquiring new Airbus A330neos and Bombardier CRJ900s and has obtained the necessary certifications. Uganda Airlines has broadened its network to include destinations such as Dubai, Johannesburg, and Mumbai, resulting in substantial increases in both revenue and passenger numbers. Over the last forty years, Uganda's transportation industry has undergone significant improvements, marked by considerable growth and upgrades in infrastructure across multiple transport modalities, including road, air, and maritime. The writer works with the Uganda Media Centre

SARAH NANTEZA
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29 October 2025

KIRUHUURAS WEALTHY; UNDERSTANDING PRESIDENT MUSEVENIS CONTEXT

While canvassing for votes in the Karamoja sub-region in recent days, Presidential candidate Yoweri Museveni urged people in the region to end nomadism and cattle rustling if they are to enjoy the government’s transformative programmes currently underway.According to his message, transformation will be derailed if the two vices are not discarded once and for all. To fully illustrate his point, he used the example of how he had since transformed the people in Kiruhuura District and made them rich through a mindset change, because they once suffered a similar problem—nomadism. The Kiruhuura people were formerly cattle nomads, just like the Karimajong, but have since been transformed after listening to the president’s correct advice. The shift from a nomadic to a settled lifestyle for the Kiruhuura people brought significant cultural and economic change, as Museveni educated them about the benefits of a settled life. These benefits included improving their animals from traditional Ankole long-horned cows that produced little milk compared to Fresian breeds that produce large quantities, thereby increasing the household income earned through selling large amounts of milk. He educated these nomads to adapt by learning to cultivate crops or by hiring others to farm for them, and by commercializing their livestock production to earn cash for their children's formal education. Museveni not only ended pastoralism among his community, he also taught them to fence their land, create water sources on their own land, and keep quality cattle breeds that add value to the owners.  One of the most critical changes in settled lifestyle was living in one permanent place. When they settled down, they started eating health organic foods; they learnt to eat vegetables in addition to milk and meat. Hygienic foods clearly replaced milk as a staple food in their community. As a result, these once poor nomads of Kiruhuura began living modern lifestyles. They built decent houses, drive nice cars, and earn not only from cows but from crop husbandry because they were taught to diversify their farming methods. Sadly, the president’s message to the people of Karamoja has been taken out of context to imply that he was boasting that his people in Kiruhuura are rich. The other wrong implication the naysayers are attaching to the president’s message is that he seem to suggest the Karimojong are still poor simply because they either don’t value work or lack innovation. Of course those peddling such falsehoods are the usual ideologically bankrupt groups that are always looking for every opportunity to misinform and disinform to soil the name of the president. These groups have gone further to insinuate that the Kiruhura people are rich because of their association with the president, since he is one of them anyway. This is absurd. When President Museveni came to power in 1986, he picked up where he had left off. While still a student at Ntare School and the University of Dar es Salaam in the late 1960s, he knew much better that nomadism was a futile practice among his people. There are many stories of how he would gather nomads in the Ankole sub-region to educate them about the need to live a settled life. During his holidays, Museveni did not have the luxury of having fun like any young man; instead, he spent all his time educating his people about mindset change. When he finally became President, he strongly advised them against loaming the country with their cows in search of fresh pastures. He advised them, among other things, to use their lands for a few but improved breeds that give them enough milk for sale. Indeed, the Kiruhuura people heeded the president’s advice and transitioned to a permanent settled lifestyle. It is no wonder that Kiruhuura is among the first two districts in Uganda to produce large volumes of milk. Kiruhura alone produces 1.2 million litres of milk every day, about 60 per cent of the total milk produced in the country. Kiruhuura’s milk accounts for 45% of Uganda’s milk export. As a result, people’s incomes have drastically changed. Household income is among the highest in the country. Decent means of transport have been acquired,and healthy lifestyles are now a standard feature for these once haggard-looking pastoralists. Finally, what was clear in the president's message to the Karimajong is that they must adopt a mindset change and listen to his advice, as the Kiruhuura nomads did. This, however, must be peaceful and voluntary. Nomadism and cattle rustling is indeed a primitive form existence that any sensible leaders must discourage. And that is precisely what the president meant when he was counselling the Karimajong people, but not bragging at them like most biased social media keyboard warriors are quick to comment. The writer is the Ag. Executive Director Uganda Media Centre

BY OBED KATUREEBE
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28 October 2025

REGIONAL BOOT CAMPS ENHANCING YOUTH CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION.

Throughout last week, UNICEF Uganda, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, held innovation boot camps in the Greater North and Eastern regions in anticipation of this year's World Children's Day celebration, which is scheduled for November 20th under the theme "my day, my rights". They engaged young people from previous celebrations to act as change agents and advocates through regional boot camps, enabling children to gain knowledge, develop, and share solutions that benefit their communities. The regional boot camps began in Arua for the Great North, followed by the Eastern region, then the Western region, and will conclude in the Central region. The boot camps are organized under the theme "Invest in Uganda's children for a better future." I participated as part of the team responsible for the digital promotion of the boot camps. I was particularly impressed by how the youth identified various issues, proposed solutions, explained how these solutions would benefit their communities, and outlined strategies for sustaining these solutions. The innovation boot camps are part of the broader I-UPSHIFT initiative, aimed at equipping young people with skills in social innovation and entrepreneurship. The camp for the Greater North was held in Arua district, with representatives from Yumbe, Madi Okollo, and Terego districts attending from their schools, including Edena Primary School in Madi Okollo, Eleke Primary School in Yumbe, and Lygbari Primary School in Terego. The focus here was on school children who are currently enrolled. The young innovators used their problem-solving skills to tackle real-world challenges, turning ideas into sustainable, commercially viable solutions. It was truly inspiring to see creativity and purpose manifesting in their efforts. Initially, the children were guided through the stages of pitching, detailing what they would be doing and the methods involved. Subsequently, the practical component commenced with pitch preparation on Tuesday, the 20th of October 2025, referred to as the mock pitch, followed by the final pitch on the 21st of October 2025. Lugbari PS, originating from the Terego District, was declared the winner to represent Greater North at the National Finals on World Children's Day. This achievement followed their exceptional pitch, which earned them a score of 77.6 points with the Ever-Ready Club, thus securing the 1st position. In contrast, the Smart Life Skills Club finished in 2nd place with a score of 69 points. Following our conclusion with Greater North, we proceeded to the Eastern region in the Soroti district, where the emphasis was on out-of-school children. The Eastern Region boot camp included participants from the Napak, Amudat, Kotido, and Nakapiririti districts. Similar to the Greater North, participants from the Eastern region were also guided through the pitch criteria after presenting their pitch ideas, which outlined the issues they aimed to tackle. Initially, the participants had not put in more energy in the pitch but upon informing them that the two winning groups would be traveling to Kampala, I observed a notable concertation in their pitching preparations. In fact, some groups chose to remain for several additional hours to refine their pitches. The youth pitched their ideas identifying the problem, proposing a solution, demonstrating how the solution would benefit the community, and ensuring the sustainability of the solution. After the pitches concluded, the judges declared Napak district as the winner, with team Leopard achieving first place, while team Lion earned second place, both set to represent the Eastern region at the National finals in honor of the 2025 World Children’s Day. During the boot camps, young participants expressed their concerns about significant issues impacting their lives, including school drop-out rates associated with poverty, the unavailability of sanitary pads affecting girls' school attendance, restricted access to water, early marriages, deforestation, and unemployment, while promoting change through innovative strategies. The writer works with the Uganda Media Centre

SARAH NANTEZA
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