In a moment equal parts serious and spirited, academic and cartoonist Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo offered a gentle, but firm, wake-up call to the most outspoken supporters of Uganda’s National Unity Platform (NUP).
Speaking at the party’s headquarters, Dr. Spire addressed the so-called “foot soldiers,” urging them to dial down the verbal aggression that has become part of their political engagement toolbox.
“Don’t turn abusing into a method,” he said, with his trademark mix of wit and wisdom. “Yes, I understand the passion and the struggle. But even in battle, we must be thoughtful about how we fight.”
His message, though met with a somewhat chilly reception from the party members, resonated across social media, igniting a firestorm of praise, and criticism.
“Some of you graduated as foot soldiers,” he noted. “And you’re doing great work on the frontlines, pushing back against narratives. But it’s important to ask: what do your actions make others think of us?”
Dr. Spire confessed that even he isn’t immune to frustration, “I too get annoyed. I’ve abused, but I do it through cartoons not direct like you.”
While some in attendance may have bristled at the message, others online applauded his courage.
“It took bravery and courage to say this,” wrote @ProsperAhabUG. “He knew it wouldn’t be popular, but he said it anyway.”
“We will change if that’s what it takes for the struggle to succeed,” echoed @djawuma.
Others were less enthusiastic.
“….he is busy undermining the party and you are seating comfortably listening,” posted @otaribanga9992.
Some interpreted his remarks as indirectly aimed at NUP leader Bobi Wine, with user @muko_stanley suggesting, “Bobi Wine was not comfortable with his speech.”
Dr. Spire wrapped his remarks with a call for emotional intelligence: “Whether you’re on this side or that side, it’s always wise to tame ourselves” stressing that not every question deserves a war.
In a country where politics can often get personal, his words serve as a timely reminder that the loudest voice isn’t always the most persuasive, and sometimes, restraint speaks volumes.
