On October 9th, 1962, Uganda gained independence from British colonial rule. Ugandans were eager to embrace self-determination and shape their own future. However, the post-independence era was marred by divisive politics, often rooted in deep-seated religious differences, which weakened the country’s political fabric.
Ugandan leaders did not look at a bigger Uganda but rather using sectarian lenses that culminated into political turmoil and fertile ground for neo- colonialistic agenda.
Many of these leaders lacked ideological clarity hence our post-independence army being built on incorrect ideology making it unprofessional and anti- people. The army killed citizens that it was meant to protect.
Uganda from independence time to 1986 witnessed political turmoil, economic stagnation, lack of democracy, unprofessional army, sectarian tendencies based on tribes and religions.
NRA/M government under tutelage of the sitting president of Uganda H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has aimed at redressing these ills and usher in political normalcy.
NRM government has targeted to reinstate democracy, economic reconstruction, mitigate ideological faulty lines by inculcating patriotism, nationalism and Pan-Africanism.
Imperative to say; as we celebrate 63 years of independence; we need to reflect on errors our Ugandan leaders did that caused political anarchy, economic stagnation, and disunity of Ugandans based on tribal and religious lines.
We have a patriotic and generational duty to have learnt something not to repeat these ills that costed us as a nation.
At the time of our independence, Uganda was on a similar developmental footing with Singapore. However, unlike Uganda, Singapore avoided many of the political and social ills that plagued our nation. As a result, Singapore rapidly accelerated its national development, leaving Uganda far behind in terms of progress and prosperity.
As we enter the election campaign period, we must remain vigilant and support a presidential candidate committed to protecting the national gains achieved since 1986.
We need a leader who champions the socio-economic transformation of Uganda, prioritizes peace and stability, promotes the professionalization of our armed forces, and firmly rejects sectarianism and parochial interests.
Such a leader must also resist neo-colonial agendas designed to destabilize Uganda in order to gain leverage over our natural resources.
Political instability and neo-colonial exploitation are deeply interconnected, instability creates fertile ground for external powers to advance their interests at the expense of our sovereignty.
I have keenly observed a troubling trend from one particular presidential candidate in Uganda. This candidate has not only prematurely declared himself the winner before any vote has been cast, but has also encouraged his supporters to resort to violence upon the announcement of election results.
He is already protesting an election that has not yet occurred, a classic case of a “protest vote” without merit.
More concerning is his frequent use of hate speech, sectarian rhetoric, and divisive language that threatens our hard-earned national unity.
His so-called “manifesto” is less about policies or vision, and more about personality attacks, incitement to violence, and fostering division among Ugandans.
Uganda’s Constitution is clear. Every five years, citizens exercise their right to choose leaders through the ballot box.
If any candidate or party feels aggrieved by the electoral process, the Constitution provides legal and peaceful avenues for redress, through the courts, with credible evidence.
Resorting to violence, insurrection, or civil disobedience in pursuit of the presidency is not only unlawful but a direct threat to Uganda’s peace, stability, and democratic destiny.
Anyone advocating such actions positions themselves as an enemy of Uganda’s progress and sovereignty.
As we commemorate Uganda’s 63rd Independence Day, we are reminded of our duty to be guardians of the gains made since independence, particularly those achieved since 1986.
We must defend our Constitution, uphold the rule of law, and remain vigilant against sectarianism and ideological bankruptcy that can erode our national cohesion.
Now more than ever, Uganda needs a leader committed to socio-economic transformation, peace, and national unity.
We must rally behind a candidate whose vision aligns with these patriotic goals, and that candidate is His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Let us choose wisely. Let us protect our peace. Let us safeguard our future.
The author is Hillary Igambirine is a historian, political scientist, and the Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Bushenyi District.
Contact: igahillary@gmail.com
