Faith Nyasuguta
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has advised the youth against participating in the planned anti-corruption protests set for this month, urging them to engage in more constructive activities. This statement comes as Ugandan youths, inspired by the ongoing demonstrations in neighboring Kenya, prepare to march to parliament on July 23 to protest against perceived systemic corruption.
In response to the announcement of the protest, President Museveni issued a stern warning to the youth, suggesting that their energy would be better utilized in productive endeavors. He condemned the idea of the protest and highlighted the negative impact such demonstrations could have on the country.
According to the Uganda Monitor newspaper, the youths are planning to march to parliament to voice their grievances about corruption. The publication also noted that several lawmakers are currently facing corruption charges, emphasizing the depth of the issue within Uganda’s government. Despite the legitimacy of their concerns, President Museveni has urged the youth to reconsider their approach.
In a speech delivered on Saturday, Museveni advised those planning to protest to speak with Col. Edith Nakalema, who led the anti-corruption walk from City Square to Kololo in 2019. That event managed to address corruption concerns without disrupting daily life.
In his address, Museveni warned the Ugandan organizers that their planned protest would not be tolerated.
“We are busy producing wealth and you here want to disturb us. You are playing with fire because we cannot allow you to disturb us,” he said.
Museveni also accused foreign conspirators and opposition elements of inciting riots and illegal demonstrations in Uganda, warning that action would be taken against such activities.
“Some elements, some from the opposition, are always working with foreigners to ferment chaos in Uganda. These people are unfair and should check themselves, or we will have no alternative but to check them,” Museveni stated.
The Ugandan protests appear to have been influenced by the ongoing protests in Kenya. In Kenya, demonstrations erupted in response to an unpopular tax bill introduced by President William Ruto. The controversial tax proposal, which targeted basic amenities, e-waste products, imported goods, and construction materials, sparked widespread resentment, particularly among the youth.
Initially, the Kenyan protests were focused on challenging the tax bill, but after turning violent and resulting in over 40 deaths, the protesters shifted their demands to calling for President Ruto’s resignation. Despite Ruto’s decision to repeal the tax bill, the protesters continued to demand his ouster.
Given the developments in Kenya, President Museveni is keen to prevent similar unrest in Uganda. His administration is taking measures to address the youth’s grievances while discouraging disruptive protests. The emphasis is on constructive engagement and dialogue to tackle corruption and other issues affecting the nation.
As Uganda approaches the date of the planned protest, the government’s approach will be crucial in determining whether the protests escalate or are managed peacefully. The situation remains tense, and the response of both the authorities and the protesters will be critical in shaping the country’s immediate future.
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