As Uganda marks 64 years of independence, opposition leaders in Kabale District have called for a peaceful transfer of power, respect for human rights and a stronger economy, saying these are essential for the country to achieve meaningful independence.
Uganda celebrates Independence Day on October 9 every year to commemorate its attainment of independence from British colonial rule in 1962. This year’s celebrations were on Friday held virtually from State House, Entebbe presided over by President Museveni under the theme, “Embracing Our Sovereignty with Hope and Visionary Leadership”.
Former Kabale Municipality Member of Parliament, Dr. Nicholas Thaddeus Kamara said Uganda had not experienced a peaceful transfer of power from one leader to another since independence, arguing that this had undermined the country’s democratic development.
Dr Kamara also questioned Uganda’s economic sovereignty, saying many major companies were foreign-owned and that significant sections of the economy remained under foreign control.
He further expressed concern over what he described as shrinking civic space for political parties and actors, citing the imprisonment of some opposition figures and the departure of others into exile over alleged political persecution.
CUE IN KAMARA…. ON INDEPENDENCE…RR//
Former Central Division LC3 Chairman aspirant Leopold Twesigye echoed Kamara’s concerns, saying it was regrettable that Uganda had yet to witness a peaceful transfer of power between successive leaders.
Twesigye also drew parallels between the colonial administration and the current political environment, alleging that the government had adopted practices similar to those used by colonialists, whom he accused of treating Ugandans inhumanely.
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Former Central Division Speaker Julius Tituryebwa said Uganda needed to reassess its economic sovereignty, arguing that continued dependence on foreign aid and imported goods raised questions about the country’s ability to sustain its independence.
He said Uganda should, after 64 years of independence, have developed sufficient technological capacity to manufacture more of the goods it consumes instead of relying heavily on imports.
Tituryebwa also blamed corruption for undermining national development, saying more needed to be done to address the vice and ensure public resources contribute to improving citizens’ welfare.
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Meanwhile, the director of Let Us Save Uganda (LUSU), Simon Byamukama, described Uganda’s attainment of independence as a significant achievement, particularly because citizens have the opportunity to elect their leaders.
However, Byamukama said political independence should translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives, including access to quality education, affordable and effective healthcare, and respect for fundamental rights and freedoms.
He said these were essential conditions for ensuring that Ugandans fully benefit from the country’s independence, adding that national sovereignty should be reflected not only in political leadership but also in the well-being and dignity of citizens.
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