THE Rt. Rev. Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira, Bishop Namirembe Diocese, Church of Uganda will tomorrow Friday 31st December 2021 lead Church in powerful praise and worship, prayer, intercession and deliverance service as world crosses over from year 2021 to 2022. The Diocesan crossover night, will be live on different Tv stations, radio stations online, Facebook page and YouTube on 31st December from 9pm to 6am, in observance of Covid-19 guidelines. According to the Diocesan Mission Secretary Rev. Samuel Muwonge who is the chief Organiser, “Church will be thanking and praising the Lord for what He has done for us in 2021 and welcoming the New Year 2022 by worship, singing and Praising Jesus Christ. Our Lord the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese Kityo Luwalira will lead us in the crossover night 2021/2022.” The theme of this crossover night is: “And you shall be my people, and I will be your God.” Jeremiah 30:22. Dont miss Ven. Can. Isaac Membe Kijjambu (Mengo Archdeaconry also Diocesan Treasurer), Rev. Nathan Mulondo (Diocesan Secretary for Education), Mrs. Milly Obbo (from Katwe Martyrs also owner Praise Intergrated Secondary School), and others.
■ Says EALA elections are now held in Uganda because of him ■ Read about how he filed and urgued a case that freed DP, UPC and other parties to compete for EALA seats ■ Shows the scores and challenges of EALA ■ Gives an overview on DR Congo joining EAC
PHOTO: Hon. Mbidde tabling the crossborder Legal practice bill in Parliament
STORY BY: MOSES MUGALULA NEWS EDITOR MEDIA
EARLY next year 2022, Hon. Fred Mukasa Mbidde, a lawyer who filed and successfully urgued a case, East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) seats to be competed for by all political parties in Uganda, will be biding farewell to the Arusha based Parliament where he has been Member of Parliament for two terms. EALA MPs strictcly serve for two terms. Two weeks back, DP’s NEC elected Dr. Gerald Blacks Siranda to take over the party flag after Hon. Mbidde. Originally, only two political parties, National Resistance Movement (NRM) and opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) used to share among themselves all EALA seats, the two appointed their favourite members to be sent to the Arusha Parliament. Fred Mukasa Mbidde, the reigning Democratic Party Vice President who also a visiting lecturer at Soka University, Chiba University and Kyoritsu Women’s University in Japan, realised that this was contrary to the treaty. He identified loopholes and moved to stop this. Giving News Editor Website an interview, Mbidde who is a former Guild President of the great Makerere University told us that, “I filed and successfully urgued Application Ref. No. 6 of 2012. This case freed Democratic Party and all other political parties to compete favourably for EALA elections as opposed to the TWO (FDC and NRM) that were originally allowed to appoint who of their members should go to EALA.” “Of course their actions were not backed up by any law. I defeated them and now all political parties including new comers NUP and independents can contest for EALA slots.” Hon. Mbidde proudly said, on spoiling NRM and FDC’s EALA deal. When the race was opened up in 2012 for other contestants from different political beliefs in Uganda, Democratic Party (DP) and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) competed for EALA seats and won. In fact since competing for EALA seats started, FDC has been left out due to their political mistakes.
A QUICK REMINDER ABOUT FDC In 2012, they boycotted EALA elections. When the Blue Party held primaries, Salaam Musumba and Anita Among (now Deputy Speaker after defecting to NRM) contested for the party ticket. All ended when FDC is not fronting a candidate in the final elections. In 2017, Party Secretary General Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi sent two names to the Parliament of Uganda (the electoral college). Those sent were; Florence Ebi and Ingrid Turinawe Kamateneti. It’s important to note that, FDC held EALA primaries and each of the two camps within the party fronted candidates. The Dr. Kizza Besigye’ camp endorsed Ingrid Turinawe while the Gen. Mugisha Muntu’s camp (who was then the party President) fronted Florence Ekwawu Ibi, former Kaberamaido district woman member of Parliament. In the elections which were carried out at the Najjanankumbi Party headquarters, Muntu’s camp won Besigye’s camp. But because SG Mafabi was a Besigye’s man, he got intrigue on Florence Ibi’s win. In his letter to Uganda Parliament introducing the official party flag bearer, Mafabi also included Ingrid Turinawe on the list an act which confused and angered MPs hence they rejecting both candidates. Six NRM candidates, one DP candidate (Mukasa Mbidde), UPC’s Chris Opoka and Independent’s Susan Nakawuki Nsambu went through, the rest is history. In an interview with Hon. Mbidde, reasoned that having set a precedent, new political parties like the National Unity Platform (NUP) can now think of fronting EALA candidates in the forth coming elections. It is no longer an NRM/FDC business as it was.
RELEVANCE OF EAST AFRICAN COPERATION (EAC) Asked about the impact of EAC to the common person in Uganda, Hon. Mbidde talked about a common market, among others. Mbidde, the proprietor of Elsie Hotel in Masaka City said, “Of course our economies are still under producing so the populations don’t directly feel the impact. But even physical infrastructure developments like the Kampala – Masaka Mbarara Road, are all EAC projects. There is also Visa and tax free entry into EAC countries for intra-trade purposes (if goods are made in East Africa) and have a certificate of origin, etc.”
ABOUT DRC JOINING EAC Currently, East has six member countries namely Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi and South Sudan. The latest to apply for inclusion is Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Giving an overview about this development, Hon. Mbidde told this news website that DR Congo is welcome. He said, “The bottom line is the enjoyment of economies of integration. DRC has a population of 89 million people. The addition of their market to the EAC generates an aggregate demand of over 229 million buyers and sellers.” Hon. Mbidde however told us, DR Congo is not yet cleared to join EAC. The Summit just approved commencement of final negotiations ( Last 3 steps) and they are easy though. Asked what are these steps, Hon. Mbidde said, “The last step shall be the final admission by Summit for joinder by the 22nd Summit of the heads of State . The remaining two include meetings with state organs and perusal of checklist documents on Security, Good governance etc. On fulfilment, DRC will definitely be part of EAC.”
DOES EAC LOOKS INTO DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE OF MEMBER STATES? Hon. Mbidde said yes. He cited Article 6(d) and 7(2) of the Treaty saying it enjoin it to do so on account of Good governance, social justice and equal opportunities to citizens.
Hon. Mbidde, Hon. Kyagulanyi shake hands at a DP function last year
Asked about member counties which do not practice this yet EAC just looks at them making some citizens to consider EAC to be irrelevant, Mbidde said, “Of course it should be noted that EAC has challenges on Democracy, Respect for fundamental human rights, Accountability/corruption issues and Security.” “It also however has referral organs for resolution of disputes e.g The East African Court of Justice (EACJ) Court that Citizens can use. Of course few of us use these courts.” MP Mbidde told News Editor Media.
10 YEARS OF HON. MBIDDE @ EALA ● Filed and successfuly urged a case of DP V Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Burundi for opening the African Court on human and peoples rights to their citizens. ● Mbidde Foundtion V EAC Ref No 5 of 2015 that saved the impeachment Of Speaker Margaret Nantongo Ziwa (a Ugandan) for over 2 years. ● Intervened in Birundi V EAC that saved the Current Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Ngoga from removal by Court. ● Filed a matter against Kenya and also negotiated with South Sudan President Salvar Kiir for the Re election of EALA members that had wrongly been appointed ● In Parliament, in 2013 he was the Chairman of the Legal Committee, Chairman of the Communications Trade and Investment Comittee 2015 and now serving as a Comissioner EALA a position equivalent to that of a cabinet minister in charge of East African Affairs. ● Hon. Mbidde tabled the crossborder Legal practice bill ● He moved motions on free work permits ● Lobbied several African leaders for the benefit of the EAC peace and development ● Accessed aid through Mbidde Foundation for over 1m US dollars per year and hundreds of the people of Uganda have benefitted. ● Hon. Mbidde has cemented the relationship between EALA and the IPU.
WHO IS FRED MUKASA MBIDDE Fed Mukasa Mbidde is a Ugandan lawyer, politician, human-rights activist, mass communication specialist, motivational speaker, businessman and philanthropist. According to Flash Uganda Media, Mbidde is an MP in the 3rd East African Legislative (EALA), representing Uganda since 2012 on Democratic Party (DP) ticket. He was born on 15 October 1973 in Masaka District to the late Emmanuel Mbidde, a former headmaster and Ms Mary Kintu, a retired teacher. Mbidde is the second born child of his mother and some of his siblings include; Henry Mbidde and Balaam Mbidde who are lecturers at Makerere University. His father was a pure African man who had many women and children, for this reason, Mbidde grew up with his mother and could only visit him during holidays. Mbidde describes his mother as a loving and caring mother. Hon Mbidde attended Nakyenyi Primary School in Lwengo District before it was curbed out of Masaka District, a school where his mother taught, for his primary education. He joined Kabwoko High School for his middle school education, then Masuliita Boarding School and Kampala High School from where he completed both O’ & A’ education. After secondary school, Mbidde was admitted to Makerere University from where he attained a Degree in Mass-Communication in the year 2003. Following his Bachelor’s degree, Mbidde proceeded with school and in 2009 he attained a Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB). In 2010, the Law Development Centre (LDC) Kampala awarded Mbidde with a postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice (Dip. Leg. Pract). Additionally, in 2005 Mbidde received some leadership training at the Norwegian School of Leadership and Theology (HLT). In 2014, Mbidde was engaged in legal Practice in Sub-regional Courts at the Mandela Institute, University of the Witwatersrand. Mbidde entered politics in 1999 as a member of the junior wing of the Democratic Party (DP), the Uganda Young Democrats (UYD). Mbidde first gained prominence in 2001 while serving as the Guild President for Makerere University. Before this, while at MUK, Mbidde served as the deputy treasurer for the party and secretary for Students’ Affairs. He later engaged in the Makerere University guild presidency elections on the UYD ticket and won the race in all polling stations basing on many reasons. He is infact branded as one of the most noteworthy guild presidents of the 2000s. He advocated for sponsorship of all female students with the automatic addition of 1.5 bonus points to every girl student upon admission to the university which went successful. As a result, a balance between the number of girls admitted to Makerere University and that of boys who were the overwhelming majority before then emerged. Mbidde also advocated for and succeeded in the creation of the Makerere University ICT Institute and successfully acquired the necessary funding from Norway Government. During Mbidde’s reign, there were no strikes because of his excellent negotiation skills whenever there was a strike scare. Mbidde created the Ministry for Private Students Affairs to handle the issues of the then neglected privately sponsored academicians. Privately sponsored students by then were considered second class scholars and were denied privileges enjoyed by government-sponsored students. So, his efforts altered this perception positively. He improved the security situation at the university by advocating for and succeeding in the removal of old fashioned hall of residence guards who were then using bows and arrows and replaced them with the current Makerere University Army that uses guns and wears green uniforms, the colour of his political party, alongside creating a perimeter wall fence around the university campus. He as well worked upon the university sanitation issue replacing the then smelly and neglected gigantic garbage heap that existed between Makerere University School of Law and CCE Complex girls Hall with the now-famous Club Five, a student recreation facility at the university. The gigantic garbage heap had become a home for madmen, drunkards and rapists.
ENCYCLOPEDIA: Hon. Mbidde
Mukasa Mbidde additionally initiated the annual Japan-Uganda Students Conference held at Makerere University among others. As the guild president of the oldest university in the country, Mbidde was given the title of Otak Olwenyi (meaning fighter) and the name Okello by the Acholi Makerere University Students Association (AMUSA) and the Acholi Sub-region elders. Mbidde as well-received Japanese Recognition Awards from Chiba University (ACYPL) award, an accolade is given to young political leaders annually by the American Council. In 2005, after his guild presidency, Mbidde became the National UYD Vice President and in 2006, he became the National Deputy Campaigning Director for the senior wing of DP deputizing Norbert Mao, currently DP president. In 2007, Mbidde significantly participated in the demonstrations intended to save Mabira Forest from being sold to private companies. Same year, he engaged in the parliamentary by-elections race for Kalungu East County, Masaka District before it turned Kalungu District but lost in controversial circumstances. However, Mbidde till today blames President Yoweri Museveni for the loss because of his involvement in the campaigns. In the 2011 parliamentary elections, Mbidde contested for the same post in the constituency but lost and conceded the loss this time. Mukasa Mbidde is a philanthropist in Uganda and has sponsored elections of some members of parliament in Uganda. He is also a co-sponsor of the activities of DP as well as the Catholic Church in Uganda. Mbidde is so passionate about boxing and has sponsored many boxing clubs in Uganda. Additionally, Mbidde being a lawyer has often offered pro bono litigation to indigent clients as well as assist Diaspora members as far as land matters are concerned. He co-sponsored the construction of a Kabaka monument ‘Nantawetwa’ at the historical Kabaka Njagala road junction in Mengo with KCCA and received recognition from KCCA. Fred Mukasa Mbidde began working during his S.4 vacation as a newspaper vendor and by S.5 he had saved enough money to buy his first car a Toyota Carina. Currently, Mbidde is a practising attorney. He has been in practice since 2011 and is a member of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), the East African Law Society (EALS), the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the Coalition for an Effective African Court on Human and People’s Rights (African Court Coalition). He is a consultant for Kenya Human Rights Commission in Freedom of Movement specializing in the law of Treaties, Corporate Financing, Mergers and Acquisitions, Conveyancing and Trademarks. He runs a private law firm in the names of Mbidde & C Advocates and the patron Mbidde Foundation a legal based NGO. Most times, Mbidde has joint instructions on high profile cases with Justin Semuyaba of Semuyaba Yiga &Co Advocates. He has been the brain behind most cases filed by DP, because he’s the Chief Legal Advisor of the party. Of late, Mbidde’s legal practice has been inclined to Sub-regional courts especially the East African Court of Justice (EACJ). Mbidde has many friends in Japan who have supported Mbidde Foundation programmes over the years and the Financial Times Newspaper (1999-2000), he closed it down because Ugandans were not interested in reading economic literature.
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Hon. Aloysius Mukasa and his Lubaga team after their release on bail. NUP’s Nakweede (in photo) thanked them for showing solidarity
NEWS EDITOR
IF there was any Member of Parliament from outside Kayunga who had caused headache to NRM’s Andrew Muwonge camp is none other than Lubaga South legislator Hon. Aloysius Mukasa. As eletion day was nearing, all security teams in Kayunga were put on alert to make sure Mukasa doesn’t enter this district. This is the very MP who on Tuesday, two days to elections day battled with army and police officers who had manned a roadblock and checkpoints at NUP President Hon. Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi’s residence in an attempt to block him from heading to Kayunga to comb votes for party candidate Harriet Nakweede. Hon. Mukasa almost forced himself through saying he was delivering medicine to the Principal. Security, however denied him access. Four days before this fracas at Kyagulanyi’s home, Hon. Mukasa’s ambulance was intercepted in Kayunga, driver and other occupants arrested. We were told, Hon. Kyagulanyi had asked MP Mukasa to send his ambulance to Kayunga ahead of his visitation on Tuesday. Bobi Wine expected some security officials to shoot and injure Nakweede’s supporters, a moment the Ghetto gladiator lands in Kayunga. According to security briefing, as soon as Mukasa’s ambulance crossed Ssezzibwa, security officials got an order to intercept it and arrest who ever was inside. There were reports that the ambulance was ferrying Lubaga South NUP footsoldiers who are masters in vote protection and anti-vote rigging. Security operatives had been briefed about how Mukasa employed this well trained squad during his election in January as Lubaga South MP beating 14 other candidates who included then incumbent Paul Kato Lubwama, former MP John Ken Lukyamuzi, DP’s Eugenia Nassolo, NRM’s Kenneth Male among others. Never joke with Mukasa if it comes to vote guarding. He is superb. So security was tipped on how MP Mukasa was planing to send this squad to Kayunga to contain the enemy’s camp. Unfortunately after a long chase between the police patrol and Lubaga South ambulance (ambulance tyres were shot at to force it stop), it was discovered that none of the occupants was a member of the feared squad. The occupants were temporarily detained and later on left to go, although the ambulance by press time, was still parked at Kayunga Police.
MUKASA IN KAYUNGA: DID SECURITY SLEEP ON DUTY? Even before he was elected Member of Parliament, Mukasa a successful businessman was driving in expensive cars. At all roadblocks on Kayunga district entrances, they thought this MP will enter the district driving in a V8. They read wrong notes. He was driving in a tinted DMC saloon car getting officers on roadblocks, off-guard. For they might have thought, this car owner was one of the pineapple farmers in Kangulumira!
Here Hon. Mukasa had just reached in Bbaale subcounty. In the photo is his small car in which he confused security
So it was given way without thorough checking. If it was not for the Moses Karangwa’s men who got suspicious and called Police that the most dangerous NUP MP had been cited in Bbaale driving in an old small car, it could have taken them a decade to realize that he is in the district.
MUKASA IN KAYUNGA He entered Kayunga town at around 6pm on Wednesday evening. Inside his car, there were three other occupants. A journalist, a one KCCA NUP councilor and the MP’s driver. Because the Party secretariat had assigned Hon. Mukasa to oversee all polling stations in Bbaale County, he ordered his driver to drive towards Bbaale. “Our footsoldiers from Lubaga South had already touched ground and studying the place for easy monitoring the next (polling) day.” MP Mukasa told us in an exclusive interview shortly after his release. He moved around Bbaale subcounty undetected and briefing his anti vote rigging squad, who included among others; councilors Ronald Ssemaganda, Haruna Nkuubi, Rose Kigozi, Richard Ssekitayira, Sumayiya Kizito, Ronald Mutumba, Luyima, Faridah Nakabugo, Nagudi and others. While Mukasa was still briefing his team on what to do the next day, there came a security drone van and stopped at this group. When security men got out to find out what was going on, councilor Nakabugo identified one of them and she asked him why they were following members of Nakweede camp. Men in the drone might have not reorganised Hon. Mukasa. They entered their drone and drove away.
MP Mukasa (in a red neck tie) in Bbaale with members of anti-rigging squad before some of them were arrested
A few minutes later, Hon. Mukasa left this place, it was coming to night. For security purposes, he decided not to sleep in Bbaale town. He might have intended to again confuse security operatives in the drone. He almost scored on this. We are told, Mukasa had secured a house on Kayunga-Jinja road and his aide was already at the venue.
MOSES KARANGWA’S MEN SUSPECT MUKASA’S CAR All had gone on well, but on his way to where he was going to spend a night, he made a stop over at the land where Kayunga district NRM Chairman Moses Karangwa allegedly evicted people. Little did he know that Karangwa’s men were around and very much suspicious. On seing Mukasa getting out of the car, think to view the said land, they called Kitimbwa police. Within a twinkle of an eye, a police patrol full of officers armed to teeth intercepted Mukasa’s car and ordered occupants to get out. It was coming to 7:30 pm. On identification, they were directed to drive straight to Kitimbwa Police post in Bbaale as the patrol was following them. The MP inquired why they were being arrested but none of the officers explained. “At Kitimbwa we were briefly detained and later taken to Kayunga Police station at around mid night.Late night, I heard someone calling my name. I was taken out of the cell, together with my friends, we were thrown into a waiting drone van and it took the Kayunga-Jinja road. We did not realise how we ended up at Naggalama Police Station where I found my colleagues Hon. Charles Tebandeke (Bbaale) and Hon. Lukyamuzi David Kalwanga (Busujju).” Hon. Mukasa told us in an interview after his release. The whole of Thursday (election day) and part of Friday, Hon. Mukasa and other detainees were still locked up at Naggalama police station. Late on Friday evening, the MPs and other arrested NUP leaders were taken to court where they were charged of disobeying lawful orders on curfew. Court however, released them on bail. In our interview with Hon. Mukasa, he told this fastest growing news website that, “Arresting us did not stop the good people of Kayunga to vote for our candidate Harriet Nakweede. I am sure their victory will be reclaimed. However, It is absurd that all malpractice was done in front of electoral commission bosses.”
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THE National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretary General Hon. Richard Todwong has strongly denied opposition NUP allegations that the ruling party candidate in the recently concluded Kayunga district LCV by-election was wrongly declared the winner of polls. Andrew Muwonge has been sworn in today amidst tight security. Last Friday morning, Kayunga Returning officer Jennifer Kyobutungi declared NRM candidate Andrew Muwonge the winner having polled 31,830 votes against NUP Harriet Nakweede’s 31,380 votes in the delay of announcement of results for a mumber of hours. Other candidates Majid Nyanzi got 1297 votes followed by Boniface Bandikubi with 470 votes, Jamiru Kamoga with 279 votes while DP’s Anthony Wadimba was last with 158 votes. NUP rejected these results saying their candidate won with a difference of 15000 votes, what Returning officer was reading is false. In a press conference held today at party headquarters, SG Todwong said castigated all people trading in negative propaganda with allegations that the NRM candidate cheated. “I can affirm that our candidate Mr. Andrew Muwonge won and was declared genuinely by the independent electoral commission. Ignore those spreading propaganda that EC rigged for NRM. We perfectly worked for this victory, thanks to our National Chairman and all teams which worked so hard to secure this win for the Party.” SG Todwong told media. He hailed his party for sweeping majority posts in the recently concluded local council residual elections. He said his party emerged victorious with 82% in an election held last week on 15th and 16th December 2021. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and National Unity Platform scored 2% each, as independents, but majority NRM leaning took 12%.
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PHOTO: Gen Katumba’s aide delivers a goat to Balaam in the presence of Radio 4 staff
NEWS EDITOR
FORMER Army Commander who is now the cabinet minister for Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala has suprised music promoter Balaam Barugahara with a Christmas gift delivered by one of his aides, a day after President Museveni’s son attacked elders who are fighting him. Balaam is First Son Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s blue eyed boy and one of the top trumpet blowers for this generational leader. The inside motive as to why General sent this gift isn’t clear although Katumba’s aide said the Gen. wanted to thank Balaam Barugahara for standing with him when assailants on motorbikes with concealed number plates attacked him on 1st June 2021 killing his daughter. The assailants had followed Katumba’s vehicle registration number H4DF 2138 for about 4km (2.5 miles) down the road from Gen Wamala’s home before opening fire along Kisaasi-Kisota road in Kampala and sprayed the car with bullets. His 26-year-old daughter Brenda Wamala Nantogo and his driver, Haruna Kayondo, died on the spot while the General survived assassination and escaped with gunshot wounds in the hand. This news website is yet to find out what is that, Balaam did for the General for him to be rewarded and thanked. Handing over a goat to an excited Balaam, Hon. Katumba’s aide said, “Mr. Balaam, I am delivering this Christmas gift from Gen. Katumba Wamala as an appreciation for standing with him during that trying moment. Please have it and he wishes you a Merry Christmas and Happy new year.” In his reply, Balaam who is a renown successful businessman saluted Gen. Katumba Wamala for such a wonderful Christmas gift and prayed for his life. Balaam said, “Thank you Gen. Katumba for this gift. You are the second General to give me gifts. The first one was Gen. Birungi who is currently on deployment in South Sudan. Birungi was commander SFC. He gave me a cow last year. It is unusual for Generals to give civilians like me, such gifts. I am very grateful sir, i will, together with staff of radio 4 and Balaam marketing enjoy this goat on this Christmas. We love you so much Gen.” Balaam thanked God for saving Gen. Katumba’s life when he was attacked by gunmen. He prayed for the soul of Brenda, Katumba’s daughter who was shot dead, and that of the driver to continue resting in eternal peace. In an exclusive interview, Balaam told this news website that, “General is my good father. I think he likes my works in the society.” Katumba’s gift comes a day after this news website published a story from Gen. In his tweet which went viral on social media, Gen. Muhoozi who is the UPDF commander of Land Forces (CLF) tweeted, wrote; “In my military career I have faced the most resistance from some of my elders. People who should have been supporting me, were fighting me all the time. I can only describe that as backward culture. I promise to always support the young people of Uganda!” He did not however mention any name of those elders he was talking about. Among Muhoozi supporters who commented on this tweet is Balaam Barugahara. He wrote, “Our Elders who are fighting our generational leader Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, we shall name and shame you all very soon. We are an army of millions ready to protect and promote our Generational leader. So do it at your own risk. We don’t fear you, only respect you. We are a new generation of Uganda and Africa.” Insiders say, Gen. Katumba and President Museveni’s son are buddies. In fact some think, the General wanted to show his gratitude to Balaam Barugahara for coming out boldly to promote Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and his determination to expose those fighting First son.
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A photo posted by Eng. Moses Magogo on 25th September 2019 greeting ‘Maama Magogo’ while on knees
BY MOSES MUGALULA NEWS EDITOR
BUDIOPE East voters in Buyende District, Busoga region have started enjoying the fruits of their son Eng. Moses Hassim Magogo, who at the beginning of this year was elected Member of the 11th Parliament. At a mega function which will be graced by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among tomorrow Thursday 23rd December 2021, MP Magogo who doubles as Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) President, has organised a ground breaking for Bugaya State of the art Maternity Ward at Bugaya Health Centre IV in Budiope East, Buyende district which he is going to construct using his salary as an MP and also some financial support from family and friends. In a statement released by Hon. Eng. Moses Magogo ahead of tomorrow’s function, he has said, “Considering the massive support I got from the women of Budiope East when I was elected Member of Parliament, I have offered through myself, family, lobbying from friends and any other well wishers to fundraise and build a maternity ward at Bugaya Health Centre IV. Ground breaking will be on Thursday 23rd December 2021 at noon.”
Confirming the presence of the Deputy Speaker, MP Magogo has said, “Yes, The Rt. Hon. Deputy Speaker Anita Annet Among has accepted to be the guest of honour at the ground breaking of this project in Bugaya, Buyende.” Asked why giving priority to mothers, the ruling NRM MP Hon. Magogo has told this News Website that it’s true he was massively elected by women but also, he has seen how women in Buyende are giving birth on the road side and how some lives are lost in the process. “As a leader who was raised by a single parent (mother), I verily know that I am what I am because of my beloved mother. I will always respect what women go through to be mothers, to be wives, to be women and to raise their children. Where I come from, I will make sure that giving birth should be a normal process.” Reads Hon. Magogo’s statement. Known to be a man of action, MP Magogo has called on his friends, colleagues and those with humanitarian hearts, to support and also generously contribute to this cause.
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PHOTO:Busujju MP Hon. Lukyamuzi Kalwanga (left) in a van with other NUP leaders being taken to court
NEWS EDITOR
HOURS to the by election of Kayunga district LCV Chairperson last week, four NUP opposition members of Parliament were arrested, thrown into a waiting Drone van and driven out of Kayunga. Of these, three were detained at Naggalama Police Station in Mukono district until elections were done and court released them on bail. We have talked to these Members of Parliament to give an account of what caused their arrest and blocked from fulfilling a party assignment to coordinate, protect and oversee the election of NUP Party candidate Harriet Nakweede whose victory later, was allegedly rigged. A day after he was released, Busujju County Member of Parliament Hon. Lukyamuzi David Kalwanga (LDK) who doubles as NUP’s 2nd in command in Greater Mubende talked to this News Website in an exclusive interview about how, when and why was he arrested instead of being in Kayunga to coordinate their party candidate’s election. In this first serie, we bring the shocking story about how Hon. Kalwanga was arrested in Kayunga and then detained in Mukono at Naggalama police station;
HON. KALWANGA: HOW I WAS ARRESTED IN KAYUNGA & DETAINED IN MUKONO Together with my driver and two journalists who requested for a drive, I set off from Kampala to Kayunga district on election day eve. I was deployed by the Party Secretariat to join go and coordinate our candidate’s election. For starters, I deputies Hon. Colleague Patrick Nsamba Oshabe the Kassanda North MP, in coordinating Greater Mubende. Hon. Nsamba was in Arusha for Inter-parliamentary games. During such by-elections, coordinators in political parties join candidates to coordinate final touches in order to secure their victory. So it’s on this ground that the NUP Party deployed me to Kayunga district, an assignment I was ready to fulfill. From Kampala, we reached Kayunga at around 8pm on Wednesday night and started looking for a hotel to get accommodation only to be told that all hotels were allegedly booked by security personnels. I there and then called my colleague Hon. Patrick Nsanja who is the MP for Ntenjeru South, Kayunga district and on informing him how I had failed to get a hotel, he asked me to drive straight to his home. He in fact sent someone to pick us. However, on the way to Nazigo where MP Nsanja’s residence is located, I came across a road block and i was stopped. By then it was about 8:30pm. I was ordered to introduced my self, which I did and other occupants did the same. I presented by Parliament ID so to the journalists. Shockingly, the officers at the road block confiscated by Parliament Identity Card, took my photos and i saw them forwarding the photos to some people I didn’t not know and for what reasons, I couldn’t tell. As soon as they forwarded my photos, the person who received them gave orders to the officers on road block to arrest me. The officers ordered us to park at the roadside, deliberately delaying us for almost 1 and half hours until I asked them whether I was under arrest. They said yes. I asked why, because at the same road block, other cars were stopped and some of the occupants were coming from far district of Bukomansimbi to work as agents for the NRM candidates. On showing their tags and Identity cards, they were even given escorts to enter Kayunga peacefully. At around 10pm, some police officers jumped into my car and ordered my driver to start the engine and drive to Nazigo police station. At Nazigo Police Station, I was ordered to get out of my car, together with the people I had went with to Kayunga (My driver, two journalists and a gentleman who was sent by Hon. Nsanja). We were thrown into a waiting Drone van which drove us to Naggalama Police Station. Inside the Drone, we were beaten, tortured and assaulted by security guys for supporting NUP Candidate Nakweede. Some of those tortured might have got fractures. We spent the whole Thursday (election day) in dentation and the bigger part of Friday. While at Naggalama, in the night of Wednesday, other NUP Members of Parliament and a group of NUP councilors were also brought and thrown in the custody. A few minutes later, arrested mayors were also brought. And these were the people appointed by our candidate Harriet Nakweede to supervise, coordinate and protect her votes. We also came to learn that, some of our people were detained in Buvuma, others in Jinja, Mukono since Kayunga prisons were already full. Many are still jail on trumped-up charges. Remember we knew, this election worked as a yard stick to other likely by-elections like one expected in Mityana. On Friday evening we were picked from Naggalama Police custody and taken to court for mention of charges against us. At court, we were charged of disobeying lawful orders concerning Presidential guidelines about curfew! What a trumped-up case! This was totally false. Like i told you, we were arrested at 8:30pm before curfew time. Our only crime was supporting NUP and driving to Kayunga to execute party assignments. Be it so, we were not arrested for participation in vote rigging, or that we had beaten up people, but they forged up cases about curfew directives. When I returned to pick my car at Nazigo Police station, I found it when these bad hearted men had vandalised it and glasses broken! Through all this, we however learnt a lot from the experience. President Museveni intends to make Ugandans hate politics and more so, elective politics especially here in Buganda region. We noted this. He as if intends to make voters part away with elections. We ask Ugandans not to be diverted by Mr. Museveni’s tricks. Yes we went through it all in Kayunga but our hearts are solid, we are very strong than ever before and will tame the enemy come another by-election.
In Part II of this story, Lubaga South MP Hon. Aloysius Mukasa narrates his story about people suspected to be Moses Karangwa’s men alerted security to arrest him immediately after he arrived in Kayunga with NUP Lubaga footsoldiers who are masters in anti vote rigging and vote protection.
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PHOTO: First Son Muhoozi with school children, so generation he represents
NEWS EDITOR
WHAT President Museveni’s son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba tweeted yesterday about elders fighting and resisting him from achieving his dream, has caused public reaction, more so, his supporters led by promoter Balaam Barugahara who have vowed to name and shame these elders. Groups of youth country over want Gen. Muhoozi to take over presidency after his dad and they have already started mobilising for him although he has never been clear on whether he supports this move or not. In his tweet which has gone viral on social media, Gen. Muhoozi who is the UPDF commander of Land Forces (CLF) wrote: “In my military career I have faced the most resistance from some of my elders. People who should have been supporting me, were fighting me all the time. I can only describe that as backward culture. I promise to always support the young people of Uganda!”
FOCUSED: Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba
Muhoozi did not however, mention any elder either in the army, family members or friends. Insiders however say, there is a group of top army officials who think the Chief in Command (CIC) will have betrayed them if he moves to front his son as the next President after him. In fact some have openly objected Gen. Muhoozi’s presidential ambitions saying presidency in Uganda is not a family thing so the Head of State should think otherwise. Some think, The 1st son is not anywhere in the Presidential queue, Mr. Museveni should be faithful and stick to what they agreed upon during the NRA bush war. Their insinituation is simply that, after Museveni, another comrade should be ushered in, not his son who did not participate in the war. It is suspected, Gen. Muhoozi’s tweet was targeting such minded elders. Political analysts say, they are doing everything to frustrate and sabotage any attempt for the army council to endorse Museveni’s son for president. However, this looks to be time wasting.
PUBLIC REACTIONS Below are some of the reponses we transcribed from Gen. Muhoozi’s tweet: Balaam Barugahara: Our Elders who are fighting our generational leader Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, we shall name and shame you all very soon. We are an army of millions ready to protect and promote our Generational leader. So do it at your own risk. We don’t fear you, only respect you. We are a new generation of Uganda and Africa.
A true Muhoozi supporter
Sebunya Shafiq: Gen. Muhoozi has worked hard for his ranks. He has attended all the military courses and been on the battle field so many times. People will always oppose you because of your ideas. People don’t want new ideas but at the end they must cope up. The truth is Gen. Muhoozi has done a lot for young people though he doesn’t want to show off. Through CIMIC, he supports talent, youth and women groups. Elders should learn to appreciate. Peters Peterson: If I were the one (Gen. Muhoozi), I would just retire, because why would my elders be against me? Then something must be wrong somewhere. It just calls for a self examination and check up. Wilson Katorogo Katamigwa: It is ok to have ambitions of becoming the next president but remember as you support the youth do not dump the elders. Do not revenge. Just bring them close and understand the problem between you and them. Otherwise you will miss a point. Thank you next HE. Jordan: We thank you our greatest General for always supporting the young people who have always looked up to you as their mentor. Ugandans will be grateful to have you as their next president since you are ready to empower the young ones who make the biggest percentage of the population. Jeff Mugisa: Why not use the same opportunity to win the support of some elders in the army to balance the young and the old “leverage”. Older people are a source of wisdom, knowledge, experience. Some young people are not reliable! Just my thought out of good faith. Balance the boat. Josh Wabwe: That’s why museveni has to retire with his team during President Muhoozi Kainerugaba reign. We need new and fresh blood, the old ones will be advisers in political parties. Ketrah Ankunda: They should look at what you achieved at SFC before criticising you. The military needs your ideas. We love you as well. John Paul G: Gen. MK, everyone destined for greatness is always fought but that can not stop God’s plan. In the Holy Bible, Joseph’s brothers fought him but that didn’t stop him from becoming Egypt’s Prime minister. (Genenis from chapters 37 – 39). Aso, David’s brothers fought him (read 1 Samuel 17) but that didn’t stop him from being a king. Let them keep on fighting you, they will be ashamed. Your dream is unstoppable. Raisha Barbie: It’s the dream of every country to have a president who is ready to support the young people who make the largest percentage. Thank you our next president. Sk Mwaluko: Reach out to General Opande, he will teach you 1 or 2. But he will first ask, “Which war did you fight for you to be a general? You are even not worthy a corporal…from today you lose your rank..” Nuwamanya Isaac Niyi: That is backward thinking Mwaluko. Gen. Muhoozi fought LRA war, ADF in Congo, has been in Somalia and today, he is again in Congo. Bobo Musa: Gen. Muhoozi, you should have just understood the fears of Elders! A hereditary leadership is not healthy for this country. But greed & a hunger for self importance won’t let you see that. Lwanga Charles: Gen. MK, you are indeed our hero, role model and our source of inspiration. May the Almighty God continue to bless and protect you always. You are the next C-in-C. Seru Alex: Your public outcry a manifestation that NRM/NRA system has suffocated millions of youths, if you with political divine blessing has been resisted, what about the voiceless youths out there? Real system reforms and decent retirement of all national elders above 60 is the solution. Nickson Byamukama: Absolutely, don’t do like they did sir…. It’s very important to do your own way and thinking, of course their reasons are open to any open minded person, though, congratulations, you have won them because despite their resistance, you are still standing, stronger and achieving more.
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PHOTO: Hon. Kasozi (in suit) delivers a lorry full of cement to Namirembe Bishop Kityo Luwalira towards the construction of Mission House
NEWS EDITOR
THE Rt. Rev. Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira, Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Church of Uganda is saddened about the increase of trumped-up charges especially against opposition politicians asking authorities that during this Christmas season they should demonstrate peace, love and freedom not hatred. The Namirembe Diocese head was preaching during Bishop’s Christmas Carols service held at his residence on Saturday 18th December 2021. Diocesan Mission Secretary Rev. Samuel Muwonge was the overall organiser and Master of Ceremony. Choirs from St. Peters Kamuli church, Gospel Elite Crescendo, Katuuso Church Choir, God Given Choir and Sound of Grace Band owned by Bishop Luwalira’s daughters, sang the Christmas Carols.
Christmas Carols @ Namirembe
This function was also used to fundraise for the Mission House at Namirembe Diocese Headquaters which is under construction. Former Makindye East legislator Ibrahim Biribawa Kasozi who political analysts say is eyeing Kampala Lord mayoral seat in 2026, handed over 200 bags of cement to Bishop Kityo Luwalira towards the construction of Mission House. Luwalira said, many of people on trumped-up charges are rotting in prisons yet they were falsely accused, calling on authorities not to just use this season for celebrations, buying plenty of things to appease their families but to repent, have respect for human rights and treat all people equally in regard to political affliation, gender and tribe. In attendance were the officials from Central government, Mengo government, Members of Parliament, officials from Judiciary, business fraternity, Heads of schools with an Anglican foundation and other invited guests. Bishop Luwalira who is known for being an open minded and transparent servant of God said, “Jesus is the reason for this festive season, he brought peace and love, let’s us embrace him and desist from acts of selfishness, torturing those you don’t agree with and creating false charges against them. This is a season of freedom, love and forgiveness.” The Bishop who sounded as if he was referring to Thursday’s Kayunga district LCV by elections fracas where four members of Parliament who subscribe to opposition NUP party and over 50 other people were arrested and detained at Naggalama Police Station said, “I am aware, even other people were arrested these days on trumped-up charges. This is against the essence of Christmas.” “We pray for the world, which is already Christ’s, that those who bear responsibility for wellbeing of the nations may be inspired by the message of Christmas to work together in the cause of justice, freedom and peace.” Said Bishop Luwalira.
Bishop Luwalira preaching against injustices
Among those in attendence was; State minister for ICT Joyce Nabbosa Ssebuggwawo, Lady Justice Wilfred Nabisinde, Mengo Kingdom’s 2nd deputy Premier Owek. Wagwa Nsibirwa, Busiro East MP Medard Lubega Sseggona, Lubaga Mayor Mberaze Zacky Mawula, Diocesan Secretary Rev. Can. Henry Ssegawa, Kings College Buddo HM John Fred Kazibwe, Mengo Senior HM Nantajja, Luzira HM Ssenyimba, Rev. Lutaaya (Katwe Martyrs), Rev. Kakooza, Rev. Kiyingi, Pr. Aron Mutebi (Entebbe Miracle Centre), among others. They all contributed towards the construction of Mission House.
‘OPEN YOUR EARS OR PERISH’ – HON. KASOZI TELLS GOV’T ABOUT BISHOP LUWALIRA’S MESSAGE Addressing media shortly after the function, Hon. Ibrahim Kasozi who turned down questions about his intention to contest for Lord mayorship in 2026, saluted Luwalira for his wonderful message against increased injustice and violation of human rights in Uganda.
Hon. Kasozi (left) and Lubaga mayor Mberaze
He said, “As a leader, I want to thank Namirembe Bishop for the good message today. Namirembe has great historical background, late Archbishop Janan Luwum stood at this hill to speak out against bad governance and advised the then authorities on how to live harmoniously with the people they lead.” “Look at today’s message by Bishop Luwalira. It’s a wake up call to the NRM government. They went for a guerilla war due to vote rigging in 1980 General elections. But if you followed well what transpired in Kayunga this week, malpractice marred this election. Votes were rigged, opposition supporters arrested, people were clobbered by security officers, you can’t say this was a free and fair election. So if leaders can open their ears to what the bishop has preached, we will together enjoy our country. If they remain adamant, then they will perish.” Earlier Hon. Kasozi told congregation at Bishop’s home that when Rt. Rev. Kityo Luwalira invited him to attend this function, he felt so much privileged. “True leaders must serve all the people without discrimination. During service delivery, all must benefit. Through my political life, I have been getting unmeasured support from Anglican Church, Catholic Church, Seventh Day Adventist Church, The Pentecostal churches and Muslims. And whenever called for any financial drive, I don’t ask which religion are you, I just give away as God has provided un to me.” Kasozi told the gathering. Unveiling his contribution towards the construction of Mission House, Hon. Kasozi said, “We have managed to contribute towards church constructions, my brothers and sisters from Kansanga church of Uganda can bear me a witness. Today I have come with 200 bags of Cement and pledge to add on more 100 bags of cement on behalf of my beloved mother Jessica Biribawa.”
HERE IS MY CONTRIBUTION: Hon. Kasozi hands over 200 bags of cement to Bishop Luwalira
Kasozi a staunch Moslim said Islam doesn’t stop them from relating with non moslems in anyway provided it’s not against Islam faith. Talking about his zeal to support construction of places of worship, he told journalists that, “One day I was heading to my farm in Mityana and I stopped on the way at Namukozi to greet Dr. Steven Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, then Bishop Mityana Diocese. He was supervising construction work at Namukozi church.” The way Kasozi was dressed-up, Dr. Kaziimba didn’t recognise that he was a member of Parliament. “He took me around the church under construction and when I was leaving, I gave him money for 100 bags of cement. He was so happy when I introduced my self.” Said Hon. Kasozi. Insiders say, this FDC Party young man is expected to contest for Lord mayor in 2026 and consultations are ongoing both in his party and other friendly forces in opposition for alliance. We are told, Ssalongo Erias Lukwago has already whispered to his close friends that he is considering not to run for the fourth term. About Kasozi’s chances to win city Lord mayor ship will be story for another day.
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Hon. Harriet Ntabazi hands over the award to Bidco GM-Anoop Sharma. Extreme left is Levi Kabatabarukye
BY JOHN NAKU JINJA
FRESH from scooping the overall 2021 Best Visionary Agro-Processing and Manufacturing Company award in Uganda, Jinja based Bidco Uganda Limited (BUL), a fast Moving Consumer Goods company with a modern edible oil processing complex in Jinja City has again received other two regional awards. The two awards are Quality Excellence Award for Best Class Manufacturing in East Africa and Quality Excellence Award for the Best Manufacturer of Edible Oil and Detergents in East Africa. Organized by East Africa Brand and Quality Awards under the Theme: “Innovation and Productivity: The Place of Quality in a Time of Sustainable Change”, at Golf Course Hotel on Thursday, the event recognized the best brands in the East African region. Handing over the awards, Trade State Minister Hon. Harriet Ntabazi who represented the 1st Deputy Premier also Minister of East African Community Affairs Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga noted that the private sector is doing a commendable job as regards employment and paying taxes.
East African Award won by BIDCO
The minister further appealed to the different companies present to ensure that they keep their brands growing as a way of customer satisfaction warning them against substandard products on the market. Receiving the award on behalf of Bidco, Anoop Sharma General Manager acknowledged the trust the people of East Africa have in their products. “Winning two East African awards is not a simple achievement to us as a company.We applaud the trust and confidence our consumers have in us and commit to even offer more on the market in the future that meets quality”, a jovial Anoop said. Levi Kabatabarukye, Head Quality Control at Bidco, flanked by Saba Ghirmai revealed that all their products are ISO Certified. “Our products conform to the ISO standards and this recognition is a true reflection of what we produce”. Said Levi. The General Manager was accompanied by a team from the Sales and Marketing department. Guard Bender,Chairman of the Awards event revealed that the different awardees were chosen across the East African region with emphasis on Quality of products that the different companies produce. Over 100 companies across the region were awarded.
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