Summary:
Alupo called on veterans to dispel misleading information from any candidate at all levels to ensure that the campaigns remain peaceful.
KATAKWI: The Vice President of Uganda Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, along with Minister of National Security Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi, has urged retired army officers to counteract any harmful propaganda during the upcoming general elections.
Alupo called on veterans to dispel misleading information from any candidate at all levels to ensure that the campaigns remain peaceful. She strongly condemned electoral violence, emphasizing that it hinders national development and fosters betrayal and conflict.
She assured the public that the upcoming elections would be free and fair.
Speaking while assessing the implementation and impact of the Parish Development Model program, a strategy aimed at organizing and implementing public and private sector interventions for wealth creation and employment, Alupo stressed the importance of maintaining peace.
She reminded veterans of past instances of election violence, citing the infamous Okoore incident, where pangas were allegedly procured at the Aarapoo market and used in deadly clashes.
“The election violence we witnessed should never happen again. As opinion leaders and elders, we must start preaching against such inhumane acts immediately,” Alupo urged.
Regarding government programs, the Vice President encouraged residents to mobilize and support initiatives like the Parish Development Model, which seeks to improve household incomes.
Daniel Mulalu, Private Secretary in charge of political mobilization and affairs in the Office of the President and a candidate for the Ngariam County seat, echoed Alupo’s sentiments.
He urged political agents and candidates to respect the rights of voters and promote nonviolent campaigns.
Security Minister Maj. Gen. Muhwezi commended the people of Katakwi for their unwavering support of the NRM party, particularly for President Museveni and Vice President Alupo.
He encouraged communities to continue benefiting from government programs, describing them as strategic efforts to integrate all citizens into the money economy.
He specifically urged veterans to reorganize, strategize, and assess how they can continue leveraging poverty alleviation programs.
Additionally, he called on retired officers to inspire and motivate the public, working collectively to combat poverty and achieve financial independence.
The meetings were attended by various leaders, including District Chairperson Geoffrey Omolo, Deputy RDC Vincent Savior Okwi, and security chiefs led by 3rd Division Commander Brig. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma.
These leaders also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any individuals collaborating in cattle rustling to security forces.
