From British colonialism to American Neo-liberal slavery: The illusion of independence: A critical look at Uganda’s 62 years

 

The illusion of independence: A critical look at Uganda’s 62 years

https://observer.ug/index.php/viewpoint/82636-the-illusion-of-independence-a-critical-look-at-uganda-s-62-years 

October 9, 2024

 Written by Editorial

As Uganda celebrates 62 years of independence, a sobering reflection reveals a nation grappling with profound challenges that overshadow its achievements.

While independence was once a beacon of hope, the reality today is marked by disillusionment, particularly under the long-standing rule of the National Resistance Movement (NRM). With 38 years in power, the NRM has presided over a period where the promise of independence has often given way to stagnation and decline.

Once a source of pride, Uganda’s public institutions, including hospitals and schools, have crumbled under the weight of mismanagement and neglect. Citizens who once relied on these essential services now face a stark reality: inadequate healthcare and poorly funded education systems.

The collapse of these institutions is not merely a statistic; it represents the erosion of the social fabric that binds communities together. Poverty, a relentless adversary, has tightened its grip on the Ugandan populace. Despite promisesof economic growth, many Ugandans find themselves trapped in a cycle of deprivation.

The wealth gap between the affluent and the impoverished continues to widen, fostering a deep sense of injustice and discontent. The stark division between the “haves” and “have-nots” paints a troubling picture of a nation where economic opportunities are not equitably accessible.

The essence of independence lies in the freedom to express oneself and to participate in the democratic process. Unfortunately, these fundamental rights have been severely curtailed. Freedom of expression is stifled, dissent is met with repression, and the right to choose leaders has become a distant dream for many.

The political landscape is marred by a lack of genuine competition, undermining the very principles of democracy that independence was meant to uphold.

What value has the NRM truly added to the lives of ordinary Ugandans? This question looms large as citizens grapple with the harsh realities of their daily lives. The promise of political independence has often felt hollow, as the government prioritizes control over genuine progress.

The absence of accountability and transparency has further eroded public trust, leaving many to question the motives behind policies that should serve the people.

As Uganda reflects on its journey since independence, it is crucial to recognize the urgent need for change. The country deserves better—better governance, better services and a better quality of life for all its citizens. The time has come for Ugandans to reclaim their narrative, demanding a government that prioritizes the welfare of its people over political power.

The 62 years of independence should serve as a catalyst for introspection and action. It is not enough to celebrate the past; we must strive for a future where the ideals of freedom, equality and justice are not just aspirations but realities for every Ugandan.

The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the potential for a brighter future lies in the hands of the very people who fought for independence. It is time to awaken the spirit of true independence, one that uplifts all citizens and fosters a nation where everyone can thrive.

Museveni’s Paranoid son General Muhoozi Kainerugaba naively barks at Uganda’s Boss(Babylon USA): Uganda's military threatens US ambassador with expulsion

 

Apologize or leave Uganda, Gen Muhoozi tells US ambassador in escalating row

https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/apologize-or-leave-uganda-gen-muhoozi-tells-us-ambassador-in-escalating-row--4785452

 

Uganda's military threatens US ambassador with expulsion

https://www.voanews.com/a/uganda-s-military-threatens-us-ambassador-with-expulsion-/7810960.html 

 

By Halima Athumani

 

 October 04, 2024 4:55 PM 

 

 

kampala, uganda — 

The chief of Uganda’s defense forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has given U.S. Ambassador William Popp until Monday morning to apologize or leave the country.

It is not clear why Kainerugaba, who is President Yoweri Museveni’s son, issued the ultimatum to the ambassador, although this week the United States sanctioned four Ugandan police officers for human rights violations.

On Friday, Kainerugaba took to X three times to say Uganda was about to have a serious confrontation with Popp for “disrespecting our beloved and celebrated president and for undermining the constitution of Uganda.”

Five hours later, Kainerugaba tweeted again, saying if Popp did not apologize to the president personally by 9 a.m. Monday for what the general called Popp’s undiplomatic behavior, the government would demand that he leave.

Speaking to VOA, Sewanyana Livingstone, director of the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative Uganda, said Kainerugaba has no authority to declare Popp persona non grata unless he is appointed minister of foreign affairs.

Sewanyana said Kainerugaba’s comments should be dismissed.

“He needs to calm down. He needs to understand that Uganda is not him, neither is he Uganda,” Sewanyana said. “Uganda will always be there. Sanctions are not the functions of an ambassador. They are issued by the State Department. So, I think he is even targeting the wrong person. I think Ugandans need to call him to order. It’s high time.”

On Wednesday, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said four Ugandan police officers had been sanctioned for gross violations of human rights. These included torture and cruel inhumane treatment and punishment.

The police officers were identified as Bob Kagarura, Alex Mwine, Elly Womanya and Hamdani Twesigye.

The State Department said reports of the violations as documented by Ugandan civil court documents, civil society organizations and independent journalists were serious and credible.

Ugandan authorities did not respond to requests for comment.

A report released last month by the African Center for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims, or ACTV, noted that torture cases in Uganda were on the rise despite laws against the practice.

Herbert Sam Nsubuga, executive director of ACTV, said the organization was concerned about the situation in Uganda.

“The situation is not as good as we want it to be,” Nsubuga said. “Because just halfway this year, we have made 903 cases. So, it’s still really an issue.”

In 2023, monitors in Uganda recorded 1,235 cases of torture, with the Uganda People’s Defense forces and police as top perpetrators.

The four designated officers in April 2020 raided a Ugandan legislator's home, accusing him of violating the regulations put in place to control the spread of COVID-19 as he distributed food to vulnerable communities.

According to records produced in court, the legislator, Francis Zaake, was arrested and detained at the Defense Intelligence and Security headquarters, where he was tortured before he was left at a hospital.

He later sued the four officers, and a court awarded him $20,400.

In response to VOA questions on Kainerugaba’s threats, the U.S. Embassy in Uganda quoted State Department spokesman Miller as saying the embassy, the ambassador and the U.S. government were continuing to work directly and normally every day with Ugandan authorities on a full range of issues.

Miller said in accordance with U.S. law, the United States was committed to supporting justice for victims and accountability of those involved in human rights violations around the world.

This, he said, includes denying or restricting travel visas to visit the United States for individuals when there is demonstrated evidence that they have committed abuses.

 

 

Muhoozi lashes at US envoy after Uganda police chiefs sanctioned

Friday, October 04, 2024 

 

By  Nelson Naturinda

Bureau chief based in Kampala

Nation Media Group

 

https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/muhoozi-lashes-at-us-envoy-uganda-police-chiefs-sanctioned-4786292