By Dr. Daniel Kawuma
On November 2nd, 2023, the Museveni regime once again disrupted the National Unity Platform’s (NUP) grand opening of its new political party headquarters in Makerere Kavule, Kawempe Division, Uganda.
This action by the regime, under President Museveni’s leadership, is a clear illustration of its unwillingness to allow for democratic processes to unfold.
The regime, in an ironic twist, cited a supposed lack of sufficient security forces as the reason for its actions.
However, they deployed a heavily armed police and military presence to obstruct the event, even though there was no request for such a presence. These actions exemplify why members of the Museveni regime have faced travel sanctions, Uganda’s business environment has been downgraded, and Uganda was expelled from the AGOA trade agreement.
They also underscore the concerning human rights record of Uganda and the allegations of crimes against Ugandans by the regime at the International Criminal Court (ICC). This includes cases like that of John Bosco Kibalama, who has been missing for over three years after being abducted.
It also sheds light on the ongoing ordeal of individuals like Olivia Lutaaya and other NUP supporters who face military detention without trial in a regime that claims to uphold multi-party politics.
The Museveni regime consistently deploys Resident City Commissioners (RCCs), such as Mr. Yasin Ndidde, to suppress opposition activities on the ground. Raids on party offices, abductions, interference with political activities, and the unexplained disappearance of Ugandans are becoming alarmingly common.
These actions have even led opposition members of parliament to boycott parliamentary activities in protest, highlighting the authoritarian nature of the Museveni regime.
While the regime appears swift to use its military and security forces to hinder opposition activities, it raises legitimate questions about the effectiveness of these forces in protecting Ugandans in other critical areas.
Recent security lapses in national parks and tragic incidents, like those in Kasese and the student massacres, emphasize the regime’s skewed priorities.
The Museveni regime appears to concentrate its military and security efforts on stifling opposition rather than ensuring the safety and well-being of the Ugandan people.
This situation underscores the urgent need for a change in leadership that places the interests and safety of the people at the forefront, over the interests of the Museveni regime.
NOTE: Dr. Kawuma is the NUP Diaspora Team Leader