47 minute read
President Museveni’s Famous Quotes
Many of President Yoweri Museveni’s speeches are punctuated by clever quips and adages. There is no doubt that President Museveni has an intellectual gift. When he sets his wits, sense of humor and wisdom to work, there is never a dull moment. It probably explains why his words still strike a chord with people. Richard Wetaya picked some of the President’s memorable quotes.
On Libya after Gaddafi
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“When the problems in Libya started, the African Union set up a committee to address the situation. We urgently advised the Europeans not to intervene. You have done so anyway. Now we are seeing absolute chaos there.” On patriotism
Ugandans should be taught how to fight against dictatorship and leaders who don’t want to leave power. Don’t fear anything. Amin used to say that he feared nobody but God and where is he today?”
On the future of Africa
“I shall not be deterred by people who don’t see where the future of Africa lies. It is the short-sighted people who put their opinions in writing. They don’t understand that the future of all countries lies in processing.”
“Africa is wealthy in natural resources; the problem is they are not optimally utilized.”
On Uganda’s democracy
“My critics always forget to mention that I was democratically elected, the others were not. Everyone in Uganda can challenge me, everyone can vote, the elections are free. Not many countries have achieved what we did.”
On leading Uganda
“Running a country like Uganda is not easy. It is like driving a trailer on a bad road. You cannot give it to people who are learning to drive or those whose driving permits have been cancelled.”
Experience is the father of wisdom
“Some people think that being in government for a long time is a bad thing. But, the more you stay, the more you learn. I am now an expert in governance.”
On the state of the environment
“The teeth of a foolish man eat the seeds and he laughs at the garden where he would have planted. A foolish man, when he feels hungry, he will eat the seeds reserved for planting. When it rains, he will have no seeds to plant, but just smile at the garden. I do not want us to be like that foolish man.”
“You cannot, for instance, sustainably protect the environment if the majority of the people are still in primitive agriculture leading to the encroachment of forest reserves.”
On protecting the environment
“You cannot, for instance, sustainably protect the environment if the majority of the people are still in primitive agriculture, leading to the encroachment of forest reserves.”
The west on gays
“We do not accept the Western way of thinking that there are two ways of life. At the same time, the police (here) are not chasing gays. In Africa, sexuality is something very private, even for parading! But gays want to behave like exhibitionists.”
On the tribal conflicts in Kenya
“The problems of tribal conflicts in Kenya are much older, caused by the former colonial power. A former American ambassador there once wrote about how the CIA has contributed to the divisions in Kenyans.”
On European double standards
“We certainly would be happy for more help, but not at the price of condescension and arrogance. If the Europeans believe they can afford to be less committed in Somalia, please – we can deal with it ourselves.”
On the Police’s weakness
“The soldiers feel that the Police are not serious with the criminal elements and that they are corrupt. The army had to come in and insist that criminals must be punished. It happens in all countries, there is a time when the army assumes the duty of internal security.”
On regional natural resources
“Since our region is endowed with a lot of natural resources, including reasonable supplies of fresh water, we need and we can work together to ensure this area against these vicissitudes.”
On UPDF’S advanced capacity
“We used to fight the LRA with only walks on foot, but now, we have got multiple forces to fight the rebels.”
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA
DIRECTORATE FOR ETHICS AND INTEGRITY
H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni President of the Republic Uganda
Hon. Rose Lilly Akello, Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity
Mr. Alex B. Okello Permanent Secretary
Congratulations
“Celebrating the 36th NRM/A Victory Day: A Call to Duty for All Compatriots to Contribute Towards Uganda’s Social Economic Transformation Journey” The Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, the Permanent Secretary, Management and Staff of the Directorate for Ethics and Integrity, warmly congratulate His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni, the Government, Uganda People’s Defense Forces and all the great people of Uganda on this occasion as we celebrate the 36th Liberation Day Anniversary. On this day, we re-echo the appeal to all Ugandans to love their country and promote a sense of belonging and unity of purpose among citizens as a source of strength and progress in national development; protect the territorial integrity of Uganda by upholding the constitution and making personal and collective sacrifices to actively participate in activities that protect and promote citizen’s welfare and sustainable human economic development. Long Live Uganda People’s Defence Forces Long Live National Resistance Movement Long Live Uganda
The Directorate for Ethics And Integrity (DEI): Strengthening Coordination and Implementation of Government Anti Corruption Measures
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
01 Development of the Zero-tolerance to Corruption Policy, 2019 & the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2019/20 – 2024/25
One of the attainments of the NRM Government is the declaration of the zero-tolerance to corruption policy, indicating Government’s commitment to fighting the vice. Under this commitment, DEI developed the Zero Tolerance to Corruption Policy, in consultation with anti-corruption agencies and relevant stakeholders.
The National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2019/20 – 2023/24, which is a five-year plan to implement the Policy, was also developed. Cabinet approved the Policy in October 2018 and launched it in December 2019 by His Excellency the President of Uganda.
The major objective of the Policy is to strengthen partnerships among all stakeholders, for the effective application of anti-corruption measures. These stakeholders include Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Religious Institutions, Cultural Institutions, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Development Partners, the Media and the Private Sector.
The implementation of this Policy commenced, with the forming of strategic partnerships among the various categories of stakeholders, so as to inculcate a culture of integrity, accountability and patriotism at all levels.
H.E the President launching the Zero Tolerance to Corruption Policy and the National AntiCorruption Strategy at Kololo Independence Grounds on 4th December 2019.
H.E the President leading the five-kilometre Anti-Corruption Walk on 4th December 2019 under the theme, “A Corruption-free Uganda starts with me.”
02 Amendment of the Leadership Code Act, 2002
The Leadership Code Act, 2002 was enacted to put into effect Article 233 of the Constitution by providing a minimum standard of behaviour and conduct for leaders.This Act was amended by the Leadership Code (Amendment) Act, 2017. The amendment was developed by the Anti-Corruption Agencies, under the leadership of DEI. The object of the amendment was:
a. To establish the Leadership Code Tribunal, whose function is to adjudicate cases of breach of the Leadership Code of Conduct.
b. To repeal various provisions of the Act which had been declared unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court, in the case of Fox OdoiOywelowo & James Akampumuza vs Attorney General, Constitutional Petition No. 8 of 2003.
c. Another amendment, the Leadership Code (Amendment) Bill, 2020 was enacted by Parliament requiring all public officers to declare their income, assets and liabilities to the Inspector General of Government every five years.
d. The major objective of these amendments was to strengthen the Leadership Code of Conduct. This is linked to the objective under Chapter 2.6 of the NRM Manifesto, of effectively implementing measures to prevent the occurrence of corruption; and to respond to incidences of corruption.
03 Establishment of the Leadership Code Tribunal
The Leadership Code Tribunal is now fully operational following the swearing-in of the five members by the President, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, on 24th July 2020.
The Hon. MSEI together with members of the Tribunal pose for a group photo with His Excellency the President on 24th July 2020 after the swearing in ceremony at State House Entebbe.
The Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, Hon. Rose Lilly Akello, Centre front, in a Group Photo with the Chairperson and Members of the Leadership Code Tribunal (LCT), Together with Heads of The Inter Agency Forum Institutions After Receiving The LCT Annual Report 2020/2021 At Office of the President, Kampala
04 Dissemination of anti-corruption laws
One of the activities that DEI carries out in every quarter of the Financial Year is the dissemination of anti-corruption laws to Ugandans, taking Regional balance and equal opportunities into account.
This is to enable them to appreciate their role in the fight against corruption. Anti-corruption Laws have been disseminated to Political Leaders, Public Officers in various Ministries, Departments and Local Governments, Religious and Cultural Institutions, CSOs and Special Interest Groups, including the Elderly, Women, Persons with Disabilities and the Youth.
Between 2016 to the present, Anti-corruption Laws have been disseminated in the Districts of Kaberamaido, Dokolo, Amolatar, Arua, Tororo, Butaleja, Busia, Moyo, Namutumba, Pallisa, Bugiri, Masindi, Kiryandongo, Buliisa, Mbarara. Soroti, Gulu, Mukono, Bushenyi, Mitooma, Kanungu, Luwero, Kiruhura, Ibanda, Kalangala and Kayunga; as well as in the Municipalities of Entebbe, Kira and the Kampala Divisions of Kawempe and Makindye.
05 Simplification and translation of anti-corruption laws into local languages
During the dissemination exercise, DEI found that the language of the law is complex and difficult to understand by a good number of Ugandans.
DEI, therefore, had three of the Anti-corruption laws simplified and translated into local languages.
These are the Anti-Corruption Act 2009, The Whistle-blowers Protection Act 2010 and the Access to Information Act, 2005. Working with the Centre for Language and Communication Services of Makerere University, DEI had the simplified Anti-Corruption Laws translated into four (4) local languages of Ateso, Runyankore-Rukiga, Luo and Luganda, to reflect the Eastern, Western, Northern and Central Regions of Uganda respectively.
The translated version for Ateso was launched in Soroti in May 2018; the Luo version was launched in Gulu in May 2019; the Runyankore-Rukiga version in Mbarara in November 2019; and the Luganda version in Mukono in March 2020.
The translation and dissemination of anti-corruption laws are linked to the NRM commitment to strengthening civic competence to demand performance and accountability by providing information on accountability and anti-corruption.
The Ateso, Luo, Runyankore-Rukiga and Luganda translated versions of the Anti-Corruption Laws
The versions of “A Ugandan Citizen’s Handbook on Anti-corruption”, which sets out the various forms of corruption and the Agencies where one can report cases of corruption.
The Anti-Corruption Agencies together with the Uganda Law Reform Commission have for the last two years, been developing a comprehensive Asset Recovery Law, under the lead of DEI.
The objective is to consolidate the laws relating to Asset Recovery; and to enable the Government to recover the proceeds of crime so that people do not obtain financial gain from the crimes they commit.
The law will also provide for the management and disposal of the recovered assets as well as for Civil Asset Recovery, in instances where the owner of the property is unknown or has fled the jurisdiction. The development of this law is aligned to the Third National Development Programme (NDPIII) under the Governance and Security Programme. One of the interventions is to develop and implement an Asset Recovery Law, with the objective of strengthening transparency, accountability and anti-corruption systems.
07 Review of Uganda’s implementation of Chapters II (preventive measures) and V (asset recovery) of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCaC)
States Parties to UNCaC adopted a peer-review mechanism to assess the level of implementation of the Convention. DEI coordinated a series of consultative meetings with stakeholders and compiled Uganda’s Self-Assessment Report.
The Report was submitted to the United Nations Secretariat and the Reviewing States which are, the Central African Republic and Bosnia and Herzegovina, for peer review.
These periodic reviews enable State Parties to assess the effectiveness of their Anti-Corruption Laws, while peer review enables the Reviewing States to advise Uganda on any loopholes in our laws that should be addressed, so as to strengthen anticorruption measures.
Under the NRM Manifesto, this is linked to Regional and International Cooperation under Chapter 2.6. International cooperation and sharing experiences are vital in this war that we are fighting.
08 Popularization of The National Ethical Values to Promote National Consciousness and Mindset Change
DEI disseminated the National Ethical Values through sensitization of Secondary School students. Approximately 800,000 students have been sensitized in several school outreach programs in the Districts of Luwero, Mbale, Tororo, Kabarole, Mbarara, Rukungiri, Jinja, Mukono, Mpigi, Masaka, Iganga and Kampala Metropolitan area.
As a result of these sensitization programs, free counselling services were given to students who had been addicted to watching Pornography, Masturbation, Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.
Students of Kiira College –Butiki commit to be morally up right after a sensitization meeting.
09 Establishment of District Integrity Promotion Foras in Local Governments
The Directorate established District Integrity Promotion Forums (DIPF), which aim at bringing accountability centres closer to the people at the Local Government levels, in over 80 districts since 2016. The Forum brings together the Political Leaders of the District, District Heads of Departments and CSOs, to monitor the execution of Government programs and to discuss accountability and leadership challenges in the Districts.
The Forum is chaired by the RDC. As a result, over 2000 Government projects in Uganda were monitored from 2016-2021. Where poor workmanships were evidenced, the Contractors had to rectify them, In Eastern Uganda over 200 Government projects were monitored with the DIPF and similar successes were registered.
As a result, there has been a general decline in accountability issues from Districts where these Forums have been operationalized.
10 Strengthening Partnership with Civil Society Organizations
DEI coordinates and strengthens the operations of the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) under the arrangement of the Anti-Corruption Public-Private Partnership (ACPPP).
This coordination has greatly improved the ACPPP Partners in advocacy and mobilizing the citizens in the fight against corruption.
In the Rwenzori region, over 1 billion Uganda shillings is recovered annually from misappropriations and shoddy works.
11 Curbing Pornography in the Country
The Pornography Control Committee (PCC) commenced its work in August 2017. Their function is to detect and prohibit pornography. The Committee has done a lot of work in sensitizing the youth against pornography, and have worked together with the Uganda Police Force to have pornography offenders arrested and prosecuted.
The Pornography Control Committee together with Police inspects an entertainment venues promoting pornography
12 Coordination of The Partnerships Between Government and Religious and Faith-Based Organizations in Uganda
One of the functions of DEI is to coordinate and regulate Government’s engagement with Religious and Faith Organizations (RFOs). Under this mandate, DEI developed a draft Policy on regulation of the operations of RFOs. Countrywide consultations were carried among the RFOs and a Regulatory Impact Assessment was conducted.
DEI is in the process of collecting data to develop a database of all the RFOs in Uganda. DEI is also engaging RFOs to join government in the fight against corruption and offshoots of moral decadence.
The DEI also coordinates the commemoration of St. Janani Luwum National Day that falls on 16th February of every year.
H.E the President of the Republic of Uganda, The First Lady Mama Janet Museveni, The Archbishop of Church of Uganda, His Grace Dr. Kazimba Mugalu together with clergies and invited guests pose for a group photo after service in honour of St. Janani Luwum at State House Entebbe – February 2021.
13 Monitoring the Implementation of the National Anti- Corruption Strategy
The DEI developed a monitoring and evaluation framework that is used to assess progress on the extent and quality of implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy by various stakeholders such as district leaders, Cultural and Religious leaders, Civil Society Organizations, Private Sector and MDAs.
Several field-monitoring exercises were conducted in more than 80 districts and the reports have been very crucial in informing a number of Policy, legislation reviews and improvements in strategy and approaches in the fight against corruption.
14 Scaling up Communication of Government Efforts Against Corruption
The Directorate upgraded its Information and Communication function from a Division to a Department level and recruited the four professional staff; Commissioner Information and Communications, Senior Communications Officer, Systems Administrator and the Information Scientist to scale up its efforts of communicating government efforts against corruption. A Communications Strategy is in place to enhance the coordination role and visibility of the Directorate in the public domain. In addition, a number of Information, Education and Communications (IEC) materials were developed for effective popularization of the government anti-corruption measures. DEI achievements have been publicized through the Audio-Visual and Print platforms (Radio, Television talk shows). The department coordinates media programs during national days such as the commemoration of the National Anti-Corruption Week, St Janani Luwum Day and Independence Day Anniversaries.
The Directorate is committed to continue implementing all planned programs in order to achieve its mandate of coordinating national efforts against corruption and consequences of moral decadence in alignment to the Uganda Vision 2040, the National Development Plan III, and the NRM Manifesto 2021-2026.
Fighting corruption is a collective responsibility and as such, the DEI calls upon all stakeholders; Ministries, Departments, Agencies, Local Governments, Civil Society Organizations, Private Sector, Religious and Faith Organizations, Academia, Development Partners and the General Public to renew their commitments towards the effective implementation of the Zero Tolerance to Corruption Policy.
LEADERSHIP CODE TRIBUNAL
THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA
HAPPY 36TH NRM LIBERATION DAY ANNIVERSARY
The Members and staff of the Leadership Code Tribunal warmly congratulate His Excellency, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, as well as the Cabinet, Judiciary, Parliament, and all Ugandans on the celebration of the 36th Liberation Day anniversary.
Dr. Roselyn Karugonjo- Segawa, Chairperson H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda
Hon. Rose Lilly Akello, Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity
Hon. Asuman Kiyingi, Deputy Chairperson Mr. Didas Bakunzi Mufasha, Member Ms. Jane Okelowange, Member Ms. Joyce Nalunga Birimumaaso, Member
LEADERSHIP CODE TRIBUNAL
Padre Pio building, Plot 32, Lumumba Avenue P.O. Box 7142 Kampala, Uganda General Line: +256417117501 | Website: www.lct.go.ug
The Leadership Code Tribunal
The Leadership Code Tribunal (herein referred to as “the LCT”) is a constitutional body created under Article 235A of the 1995 Constitution and statutorily established under Section 19A of the Leadership Code Act, 2002.
Mandate of the LCT
The mandate of the LCT is to hear and determine cases of breach of the Leadership Code of Conduct.
Mission
“To effectively adjudicate breaches of the Leadership Code of Conduct in order to promote good governance.”
Vision
“A Transparent and Accountable Leadership”
Values
Accountability, fairness, independence, integrity, professionalism and teamwork.
Functions of the LCT
In discharging its mandate, the LCT is in particular charged with the following functions under Section 19B of the Leadership Code Act, 2002:
1. Receive, examine and adjudicate any breaches of the Code referred to it by the Inspectorate of Government;
2. Make a decision on any matter referred to it by the Inspectorate and submit it to the authorised person and the Inspectorate of Government; and
3. Make recommendations to the authorised person on disciplinary action to be taken against a leader.
Inaugural Members of the LCT
Jurisdiction of the LCT
The LCT has the mandate to hear and determine all breaches of the Leadership Code of Conduct referred to it by the Inspectorate of Government (Section 19Q of the Leadership Code Act 2002).
The LCT also hears appeals from the public where the Inspectorate of Government either rejects an application for or does not grant access to the declaration of a leader or public officer (Section 7(7) of the Leadership Code Act 2002).
Achievements of the LCT
The LCT is making a positive contribution in the fight against corruption through adjudication and acting as a deterrent in combating corruption. This is done through holding public leaders and public officers accountable and ensuring conformity to the Leadership Code of Conduct.
The LCT, which was established in July 2020, has embarked on its mandate in three phases which include:
1. Pre-adjudication where the LCT established its processes, systems and controls as a novel institution. This has adequately prepared the LCT for its second phase of adjudication.
2. Adjudication which will entail the actual hearing and determination of cases of breach of the Leadership Code. The LCT has received its first cases from the IG and is prepared to hear and determine these cases.
3. Post adjudication where the LCT will follow up on enforcement of its decisions.
As a novel institution, the LCT focused on its pre-adjudication phase. The LCT has thus been able to lay a good foundation before embarking on adjudication. This will ensure that the LCT meets its objectives in the fight
The LCT Members briefing the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament on LCT’s achievements and Challenges.
The LCT and IG, Led by IGG Betty Kamya, Strategise as partners for enforcement of the Leadership Code Act in the fight against corruption.
The Commissioner of Ethics and Policy DEI, Members of the LCT Launching the www.lct. go.ug Website
against corruption.
So far, the LCT as a key anti-corruption institution has been able to establish its processes, systems and controls by developing the following documents:
1. The Leadership Code Tribunal (Practice and Procedure) Rules S.I. No. 53 of 2021; 2. The LCT Strategic Plan 2020/21 – 2024/25; 3. The LCT Adjudication Score Card (for performance tracking and management in line with the Tribunal’s strategic objectives and set targets); 4. The LCT Protocol on Adjudication; 5. LCT Conflict of Interest Policy; 6. LCT Code of Conduct; 7. The LCT Mediation Guidelines; 8. The LCT Online Hearing Court Manual; 9. The LCT Registry Manual; 10. The LCT Adjudication Management Guidelines; 11. The LCT Human Resource Policies and Procedural Manual; 12. The LCT Anti-Corruption Strategy; 13. The LCT Finance and Accounting Manual; 14. The LCT Communication and Branding Strategy; 15. The LCT Communications and Public Relations Policy; 16. The LCT Client Services Charter; 17. The LCT Adjudication Risk Management Framework; and 18. The LCT Electronic Court Case Management System.
The LCT is therefore ready for adjudication. The LCT will work towards setting up regional registries to facilitate countrywide circuit hearings.
By setting a strong foundation for adjudication, the LCT is well placed to check the actions of leaders and public officers.
The LCT contributes to the fight against corruption by holding leaders and public officers accountable in terms of enforcing the Leadership Code of Conduct.
UGANET: Social justice for Health, HIV and Gender
Uganda Network on Law, Ethics and HIV/AIDs (UGANET), a non-government organization that was established 27 years ago, to bring together organizations and individuals who are passionate about advocating for the development and strengthening of appropriate policy, legal, human rights and ethical response to health and HIV/AIDs in Uganda.
Dorah Kiconco Musinguzi, Executive Director – UGANET
Over the years, UGANET has broadened its scope of promoting human rights to the most vulnerable categories which include women and girls.
These passions were further elevated by the covid-19 outbreak, that led to the birth of two very important arms that are channels of promoting human rights across the country; the Call centre 0800333123 and the Rising woman shelter and wellness centre, both of which are useful in responding to gender-based Violence cases and contribution the end of violence against women and girls.
The team of lawyers at UGANET are unmatched in the provision of legal aid to communities in selected districts across the country, where hundreds of people have been supported free of charge in the handling of their legal matters regardless of their financial and social statuses.
UGANET envisions a Uganda free from Human Rights abuses in the context of Health, HIV and Gender. Its current strategic goal is to reduce HIV and Gender-based vulnerabilities through increased legal and social protection.
The organization employs three main strategies in pursuit of its goals – Advocacy and Policy influencing, Access to Justice the through provision of Legal aid and mobilizing communities to drive their own change.
The Director General, Uganda Aids Commission joins UGANET and its partners to commemorate the International Zero discrimination day, 2020.
UGANDA PRINTING & PUBLISHING CORPORATION
Home to Security Printing and Publishing Since 1902
H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda
The Board of Directors, Management and Staff of Uganda Printing and Publishing Corporation wish to congratulate HE General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa, the President of the Republic of Uganda, the NRM Government and the General Public upon the 36th Liberation Anniversary.
Head Office: Plot 8-12, Airport Road - Entebbe P. O. Box 33, Entebbe-Uganda Tel: +256-414-320639 / +256-414-320720
Uganda Printing & Publishing Corporation
Kampala Office: Airways House, Kimathi Avenue Tel: +256-414-233614 URSB Office: Plot 5 George Street, Georgian House, Floor 6 Tel: +256-41-46724969
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AND VETERAN AFFAIRS
UGANDA PEOPLE’S DEFENCE FORCE
Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja Minister of Defence & Veteran Affairs H.E. GEN YOWERI KAGUTA MUSEVENI Commander In-Chief
Hon. Oboth Marksons Jacob Minister of State for Defence General Duties Hon. Oleru Huda Minister of State for Veteran Affairs
Mrs. Rosettie Byengoma Permanent Secretary
Gen. Wilson Mbaddi Chief of Defence Forces
Lt Gen. Peter Elwelu Deputy Chief of Defence Forces
Maj Gen Leo Kyanda Joint Chief of Staff
Interview with Hon. Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye
The Role of the Army in Parliament
A section of MPs claim that the UPDF has slowly been dragged into partisan politics and that this is aimed at boosting the numbers for one political party, what’s your take on this?
The numbers that the NRM party enjoys in parliament are sufficient to drive whatever agenda the party may have. If you recall, during the Age limit constitutional amendment the NRM managed to gather 307 members in support. In fact, had the debate delayed any further the numbers would have exceeded 320.
You remember that even in the Movement system we were represented in parliament. Even during the UPC regime the army was represented by ten members that included Gen. Tito Okello, Gen Bazilio Okello, Gen. Oyite Ojok, Capt. Kagata Namiti and others. Some people expect us to be political however, that is a misnomer. According to philosophers, the military executes politics by other means, war is politics by other means and war is high politics.
It is the military that executes war. So the military must be highly politically cautious to appreciate why they exist, why they engage in battle and therefore fight with conviction and not as robots. That explains why wherever we have been involved in war you find that there is no damaged property and reckless killing
of people. Being cautious actors makes us different from very many militaries, in the past in our own country and on the continent of Africa.
We succeed where others fail because of our cautiousness and that is what our colleagues in parliament need to appreciate.
There is a general feeling that representation is only for a selected few and the highly ranked officers, rendering the process discriminatory. What criteria is used to select these members?
First and foremost, one must be a member of the UPDF, must meet the minimum requirements for becoming a member of parliament and a citizen of Uganda. The UPDF leadership nominates not less than fifty members and forwards the list to the Commander In-chief. As required by law the Commander In-chief out of the list selects not less than 20 and not more than 30 members.
He is, however, empowered to reshuffle and perform his own nomination. The law also requires the 30% regulation which states that; out of the ten members, a minimum of three must be women. Partly it disenfranchises the lower ranked because they are not members of the Army Council which acts as the Electoral College whose membership is mainly made up of senior officers.
However, that said and heard, in the outgoing parliament we elected Capt. Suzan Lakot and Capt. Evelyn Asiimwe who were not even in the Army Council. Among the nominees, was even a sergeant so if you may ask me, the process is not discriminatory. On the other hand, according to my humble personal observation, meeting the minimum requirements is not sufficient. One must possess mental competence to be able to discuss National issues. We need to understand the role of a parliamentarian which is legislation, representation and oversight.
Hon. Cecilia Ogwal once said that we are making the lives of our own Military officers difficult, navigating politics is not easy for them. As an Army officer when do you draw the line while legislating national issues?
That is a misconception, unlike other militarized forces in the past the UPDF is of a refined breed. We are politically cautious and highly trained officers. We have been taught Political education, we know the history of our country. Therefore, we appreciate how far we have come, where we are and where we want to be.
Navigating politics means one must navigate along lines of national interests. As an Army officer I understand my role which is to maintain peace and stability. The constitution also requires me to inculcate and promote good relations with the Civil Authority which we do on many occasions while in parliament. With our constant interaction with other Members of Parliament most of them have appreciated our role in the House and many have confessed that they used to misunderstand us.
What benefits have been registered as a result of your representation?
Our Constitution encourages us to acknowledge our history, that whatever is done in this parliament is based on our history and aspirations.
The role of school would then be simple; to align the learner’s potential to the above respective subject and to teach a learner basics in writing, counting, communicating and socializing.
UPDF officials voting for UPDF Members of Parliament at Land Forces Headquarters in Bombo
Our history was characterized by violence, political instability and the military overthrowing Civilian Authority. The military which was responsible of answering political questions was politically illiterate. In his book ‘The Roots of Instability’,Kabugire sights deployment of the army in Nakulabye in 1964 to deal with a demonstration.
According to him, by the end of the demonstration dozens of bodies were lying dead and others critically wounded and nobody was brought to book, the commander was simply transferred to the East. The military today is held accountable for any kind of misconduct.
Because of our representation there is visibility within the force. We have sensitized our officers about many things including the size of the national cake.
For example, when advocating for higher salaries one must put into consideration the size of the resource envelop ant to also understand that there are other national priority areas such as Energy, Infrastructure, Agriculture, Education. So our officers appreciate why they are paid less than what they would have expected to earn.
We have been able to build capacity in terms of security. We all know that security is the bedrock for development. No investor would wish to invest in a politically unstable country. Our representation has drawn us closer to the people we serve and has improved the Civil-Military relations which is a key component as far as political stability of our country is concerned.
UPDF Representatives in Parliament (2021 -2026)
The President many times talks about Patriotism; in your view do you think your colleague MPs portray this value?
Patriotism means the love for your country above self, many of us claim to do so but our actions do not reflect that. I do not blame them because Uganda was formed out of colonialism. Different nationalities were brought together to form one nation.
There should have been a deliberate effort after the independence to promote Uganda as one nation unfortunately it did not happen. Instead, tribalism and religious differences were promoted and that not only undermined patriotism but also nationalism. Patriotism is the absolute state of mind where one pledges to die for one’s country.
The question is, how many of us are willing to do so? We need to do some work in this area; as an individual other than fronting your religious and tribal differences ask yourself what is your level of consciousness? What are your value systems? What is it that you are ready to die for once it is threatened by external forces. We operate in an environment globalized as it is where countries are eating up other countries for economic gain, so we need nationals that are cautious of their country, cautious of what they have and ready to defend it; therefore, when you come to legislate do so to strengthen your country but not to weaken it.
What challenges have you faced as UPDF in Parliament?
Our colleagues have on many occasions tried to drug us into partisan politics, some actually provoke us deliberately to drive their point home. Fortunately, we have stood our ground and not participated in that kind of politics.
There are claims that we vote with the ruling party which is not true. We vote with the Cabinet; as the military, we are part of the government.
So when there is anything in the interest of the executive we inevitably support it. If we didn’t, it would mean the House is divided against itself because the military is part of the state. However, because of our history we table the issues in parliament and appreciate the politics of the day and this has created stability for 35 years.
The other challenge is the budget allocation visa vie the times we have gone through. Whereas the public counts 35 years of NRM, we had 20 years of dealing with instability. So we had a small budget because half of the country was under war, yet we had to execute the war and end it so that the entire country is pacified.
You are a very prominent figure in this country and have been in the limelight for so long yet not caught in any scandal. How do manage that?
Well, by God’s grace I am a strong Christian, I believe in being on the right side with God. Secondly my upbringing; in my father’s house morality was given high priority and we were cautioned to never do anything that would tarnish our name. Also the code of conduct in the army has partly shaped me. We were taught that as officers we are the light of the nation so anything we do should not endanger but promote the wellness of every one.
THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION
People’s Bridge to Justice
Chairperson: Hon. Justice Benjamin Isingoma Kabiito Deputy Chairperson: Hon. Justice Faith Mwondha Kalikwani
Commissioners of the Judicial Service Commission
Lady Justice Stella Arach Amoko Ms Norah Matovu Winyi
Ms Ruth Sebatindira Mr. Johnson Bitarabeho Mr. Jimmy Okello
Mr. Kiryowa Kiwanuka (Attorney General)
HAPPY 36th NRM LIBERATION DAY ANNIVERSARY
THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION OF UGANDA CONGRATULATES H.E GEN. YOWERI KAGUTA MUSEVENI TIBUHABURWA, THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA, THE CABINET AND ALL UGANDANS UPON THE 36TH LIBERATION ANNIVERSARY.
Long Live Your Excellency, Long Live Uganda. The Commission pledges to Improve the safety of persons, security of property, observance of human rights and access to justice for accelerating growth, employment and prosperity during your tenure.
People’s bridge to Justice
The Commission is a constitutional body that is charged with the responsibility of, among other things, promoting the rule of law, access to justice and observance of human rights, in the country. The Commission’s work theme is, “The People’s Bridge to Justice”; with mandate to act as the link between the People and the Judiciary.
Vision: An effective, responsive and efficient judicial service.
Our Mission: To foster an accountable and effective judicial service through competence-based recruitment, disciplinary control, stakeholder engagement, public and judicial education
Mandate of the Judicial Service Commission
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is established under Article 146 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda.
The functions of the Commission are set out in Articles 147 and 148 of the constitutions as follows:
• To advise the President on appointments, disciplinary control, and removal of the Chief Justice;
Deputy Chief Justice; Principal
Judge,; Justice of the Supreme
Court; Justice of the court of
Appeal; Judge of the High Court;
Chief Registrar and Registrar • To appoint, confirm, discipline and remove from office of the Deputy
Registrar, Assistant Registrars,
Chief Magistrates, Magistrate
Grade 1 and Magistrate Grade 2 • To appoint, confirm, discipline and remove from office the staff of the
Judiciary such as clerks • To review and make recommendations on the terms and conditions of service of judicial officers • To carry out programs for the education of both the public and judicial officers about the law and the administration of justice • To receive and process people’s recommendations and complaints concerning the Judiciary and the administration or management of justice; and • To advise Government on improving the administration of justice
As part of its role to educate and distribute information to judicial
officers and the public about the law and the administration of justice, the Commission undertakes the following programs and activities:
• Sensitisation of members of the public at barazas, open air meetings, radio stations and other media on topical matters of public interest and concern • Education visits to universities, tertiary institutions, schools, colleges, and other institutions. • Prison civic awareness to inmates • Performance management meetings with judicial officers and staff of the judiciary • Radio and television talk shows • Radio jingles and other presentations of educational materials • Publications of legal materials like the Citizen’s Handbook on law and administration of justice in Uganda, brochures on law and their translation into various local languages. • Court inspections and interacting with court users and other stakeholders. • Interaction with other local and international NGO’s undertaking similar objectives and activities. • Explain and simplify court processes and procedures for all to understand • Support public engagement platforms • The Commission has a resource centre that is available to the public to get legal information. The Judicial Service Commission Regulations set out the offences of indiscipline that a judicial officer can be penalised for if they for any of the following:
• Conducts themselves in a manner damaging the good image, honour, dignity, and reputation of judicial service; • Practices discrimination or corruption, whether for personal advantage or gain or that of any other person; • Practices favoritism whether based on sex, race, ethnic origin, tribe, birth, creed or religion, social or economic standing, political opinion or disability; • Is a habitual late comer, or absence, or absconds from duty without reasonable excuse; • Is disobedient to authority, rude, abusive, and disrespectful or uses vulgar language; • Is lazy and or produces substandard work; • Is not trustworthy or lacks
integrity in public or private transactions; • Engages in private interests at the expense of their official duties; • Discloses official information to unauthorized persons; • Acts in contravention of the code of Judicial Conduct, the Judicial
Oath or any other oath taken by the judicial officer; • Is convicted of a criminal offence by a court of law; • Disregards the authority in his or her place of employment without reasonable excuse • Abuses judicial authority; or • In any other way contravenes any provision of the law, Uganda
Government standing orders or any other instructions relating to the discipline of judicial officers.
The public can help the Judicial Service Commission to hold Justices, Judges, Magistrates, Registrars, clerks and other judiciary staff to account by documenting said offences and report any violation the Commission.
Participants during the Judicial Service Commission annual stakeholders’ forum.
Write a complaint or recommendation addressed to
The Secretary, Judicial Service Commission Lotis Towers, Kampala Plot 16, Army Avenue (Mackinnon Road) P. O. Box 7679, Kampala, Uganda. Email: info@jsc.go.ug Toll free line: 0800100222, 0800100221 Website: www.jsc.go.ug @JSCUganda
Members of the Commission, the Acting Secretary and Under Secretary JSC after a Commission meeting in Novemeber 2021
A meeting of Chairpersons and Members of Commissions hosted at the JSC headquarters
The Principal Judge visiting the JSC tent during an open day at Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court The Chairperson JSC, Justice Benjamin I. Kabiito addressing members of the press on JSC Achievements
A JSC Legal clerk registering complaints from participants during a refugee civic engagement activity in Nakivale Refugee Camp, Isingiro District
The UN OHCHR Uganda Represenative Mr. Robert A. Kotchani (2nd R), made a courtesy visit to JSC staff at the Moroto regional office Judicial Service Commission Legal Officer, conducting a community sensitisation in Singila Village, Moroto District
Uganda’s Economic Transformation Journey
The collapse of the economy under Amin
The economy deteriorated under the rule of Idi Amin from 1971 to 1979 and throughout the first half of the 1980s. On assuming power, Amin embarked on policies that seriously affected the economy and the wellbeing of Ugandans for decades. Initially, the British recognized and supported Amin, largely because of their own economic interests.
They convinced Commonwealth members to accord Amin and Uganda recognition.
Furthermore, the IMF was involved in the preparation and support of the first budget of Amin’s government. The turning point was on 4th August 1972 when Amin, under decree 17/1972, declared an economic war, revoked the residence permits of the Asians (numbering over 80,000) and gave them 90 days to leave the country. He said God had told him in a dream that he should kick them out.
He claimed the Asians were sabotaging the Ugandan economy and were exploiters whose objective was selfenrichment at the expense of the indigenous people. Everything that went wrong with the economy was blamed on the Asians. Actually, even today, some Ugandans silently support the criminal act — of expelling Asians — and self-interestedly think of Amin as a nationalist, despite his brutal dictatorial credentials.
The decision taken by Amin to expel the
Asians from Uganda was unwarranted, inhumane, extreme and non-strategic.
The economic war proved too costly for Uganda. At the time of the expulsion, the Asians were engaged in commerce, agro-industry and manufacturing.
The expulsion did little to improve income distribution or the welfare of the ‘common man’ in Uganda. Instead, it put an end to the little economic improvements Uganda was making at the time. Skilled managers were replaced by largely unskilled people and inexperienced business class (the socalled mafuta-mingi) leading to gross mismanagement of the economy.
The mafuta-mingi ran down the factories and shops that were handed to them after the expulsion of the Asians. For example, the Madhvanis (owners of Kakira Sugar Factory) left a fleet of 120 tractors in 1972, but on their return in 1983, only four were functional.
Additionally, 18,000 acres out of the 21,000 acres they left behind had been reclaimed by the bush. Movable parts in the factory had also been taken away. As a result of this mismanagement, the country was hit by scarcity of essential goods and services. Sugar production, for example, reduced by 75% to only 20,000 tones by 1976. The rampant shortages of goods and services led to high inflation, prompting Amin to introduce several economic distortions that further ruined the economy. One of the distortions was price control, popularly known as fixing of price.
Due to shortages, prices of essential items such as sugar, paraffin, salt and soap rapidly increased, prompting Amin to fix maximum prices above which it was illegal and punishable to sell or buy. This led to the emergence of black markets (magendo) involving hoarding of basic groceries and other essential commodities. As a result of the loss of exports, there was an increased shortage of foreign exchange. To control the foreign exchange market, Amin fixed the rates between the shilling and foreign currencies, which led to the emergence of the black market (Kibanda market). Other economic distortions of the 1970s included printing of money to finance budget deficits, causing high inflation; levying of prohibitive taxes on imports, causing smuggling, destruction of the formal private sector, undermining of investor confidence and alienation of Uganda from bilateral and multilateral economic bodies.
By the time Amin was overthrown in 1979, the Ugandan economy had reached an unprecedented state of decay. Much of the country’s physical stock had been destroyed, institutions no longer functioned, debt contracts ceased to be observed, infrastructure had broken down and most of the skilled manpower as well as entrepreneurial talent had fled the country.
There were rampant shortages of essential commodities such as soap, sugar, paraffin, clothes, blankets, drugs and food. Inflation was galloping at 216% in 1979, GDP had between 1971 and 1980 fallen by 40%, while exports had declined by 60%.
Throughout Amin’s misrule, Uganda’s GDP growth rate was negative, except in 1972 and 1976 when the economy grew by 1% (see Table 1). The period between 1971 and 1980 was a political tragedy and economic disaster for Uganda.
Field Marshal Al Hajj Doctor Idi Amin Dada
Table 1. Selected Economic Indicators of Uganda’s Economy (1971-‘80)
YEAR 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 GDP Growth (%) -0.2 1 -1 -2 -2 1 -1.6 -5.5 -11 -3.4 Investment/GDP (%) 15 17 8 11 8 6 6 8 6 6 Savings/GDP (%) 11 13 11 10 5 7 7 3 8 0 Exports/GDP (%) 19 18 16 14 8 11 8 4 3 7 Inflation (%) 4 8 24 57 20 46 89 36 216 150
The Economy inherited by the NRM
When Amin left in 1979, a leadership vacuum emerged which increased the level of insecurity, weakening all attempts at economic reform and reconstruction by the three governments that ruled Uganda between 1979 and 1980.
Obote reclaimed power in 1980 and attempted a recovery program to raise GDP growth, reduce inflation and revive production. Using the dual foreign exchange rate system, he devalued the shilling and floated it, increased agricultural produce prices and attempted to reform the monetary and fiscal policy. However, the economic reforms introduced were as short-lived as his government.
After 1983, Obote abandoned the recovery program and engaged in expansionist fiscal and monetary policies that led to resurgence of inflation and a drastic fall in GDP growth. He printed a lot of money to finance the budget deficits, leading to hyperinflation.
For example, money supply increased by 127% in 1984, accelerating inflation by 140% between January 1984 and January 1985.
The Obote government also failed to keep within set expenditure limits. For example, in 1984 alone, there was a four-fold increase in publicsector wages, financed by domestic borrowing from banks and the central bank. Domestic borrowing increased by 70% in 1984. Foreign exchange controls were tightened in 1985, as arms purchases competed with consumer imports. the military in July 1985, Ugandans were living agonizing lives. During the brief regime of Tito Okello Lutwa in 1985, the economy slipped out of control.
Lutwa’s reign saw GDP fall by 5.5% (that is, instead of growing, Uganda’s GDP declined by 5.5%). The period beginning mid-1984 and January 1986 marked a steep deterioration in Uganda’s economic performance. The looting and general insecurity that accompanied the fall of Obote led to shortages of consumer goods and fuel. The rural economy was devastated and the whole economy went into a free fall.
Therefore, when NRM came to power in 1986, it inherited a country and an economy in ruins. The colonial (enclave) economy had been destroyed by Amin and Obote and completely finished off during the six months of Lutwa’s leadership.
Inflation had reached 240% by the time NRM took power in January 1986, while GDP growth had declined to 0.3%, itself being driven by the subsistence sector. GDP per capita growth was negative. For example, in 1984 per capita income fell by -3.49% and the shrinking of incomes worsened to -6.47% in 1985. 22 Life expectancy for Ugandans had reduced to 48 years. This is the reason Ugandans should always be very careful when scrutinizing the credentials of individuals popping up to lead our country.
Beginning in 1987, NRM instituted economic reforms to pull the country out of the economic pit that past leaders had dumped it in. It began by abolishing price controls and allowing prices to be determined by supply and demand in free markets. Liberal market policies increased competition, and better prices were paid to the farmers and other producers.
H.E. Dr. Apollo Milton Obote
H.E. Tito Lutwa Okello
back to their gardens and farms to produce, while others built factories to supply most of the essential goods we easily access today.
NRM also restored the value of the shilling through currency reforms at the beginning of May 1987. It re-established fiscal and monetary discipline, which enabled Uganda to achieve and maintain macroeconomic stability.
NRM also embarked on private sector-led development by founding Uganda Investment
Authority (UIA) in 1991, and privatized parastatals that were performing poorly to reduce the fiscal drain on the national treasury and promoted private businesses.
The string of initiatives was buttressed by the creation of the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) in 1991 to improve revenue collection and administration. Taxes on exports were abolished, leading to a rapid increase in foreign exchange earnings. The foreign exchange market was liberalized to let the value of the shilling be determined largely by foreign currency inflows from exports, other sources and the demand for foreign currencies to buy imports. This eliminated the kibanda foreign exchange markets which were distorting foreign exchange market, making Ugandans unable to access foreign goods and industrial raw materials. The increased exports also greatly reduced shortages in foreign exchange.
By the late 1990s, the reforms had helped Uganda achieve minimum recovery. Soon, the economy moved from recovery to sustained growth. The GDP rapidly expanded from
US$ 3.9 billion (Ush14.4 trillion today) in 1986 to US$ 34.7 billion (Ush128.5 trillion) in 2019. 23
In other words, Uganda’s economy has expanded nine times since NRM took power in 1986. As a result, GDP per capita (in real terms) has increased from Ush919,100 or US$ 260 in 1986 to Ush3,150,000 (equivalent to US$ 891) in 2018/19.
Current state of the Economy
Uganda’s economy has never been larger, healthier, diverse and full of opportunities as it is today. Like human beings, an economy is born and it grows. At times it gets moody(contracts) or even sick (recession), but when it recovers, it can get happy (expansion) and at times excited (boom).
Historical facts reviewed indicate that when the Ugandan economy was born in the early 1900s, it became stunted and stayed as an enclave for a few Europeans and Asians surrounded by a sea of poor peasants. While in that state it was decimated by inept leaders.
NRM found Uganda’s economy in the ‘intensive care unit’ (ICU), having suffered ‘multiple organ failure’ due to severe violent abuse by past governments. It has since 1986 been resuscitated to full recovery. In the past 25 years, NRM has facilitated the economy to emerge as one of the fastest growing in the world.
Uganda’s GDP per capita growth between 1997 and 2010 was better than in any of the other sub-Saharan African countries. A recent research named President Yoweri Museveni, among the top global leaders whose individual contribution has had a significant positive impact on their countries’ economic growth.
Between 1986 when NRM took power and 2014 (the period studied by the researchers), Uganda’s GDP grew at an annual average rate of 6.7%, while per capita income was at an annual average rate of 3.5%. The researchers ranked, President Museveni above celebrated world leaders such as Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore and Park Chung Hee of South Korea. Before the Covid-19 pandemic hit Uganda in March 2020, the economy was on an impressive growth path. GDP growth was at 6.5% in FY2018/19, 0.3 percentage points higher than the growth registered in FY2017/18 (UBOS, July 2020).
Industry was the main driver of this growth, expanding at 10.8%, followed by agriculture (5%) and services (4.9%). In recent years, the following sectors have significantly impacted growth: manufacturing, private and public sector construction, agriculture, mainly food crop and livestock production; regional trade, tourism, ICT and financial services.
Average commercial bank lending rate had reduced to 17.7%, while inflation was below the target rate of 5% since October 2017. Low food prices are mainly responsible for the low inflation, an indication of food sufficiency in the country.
H.E Gen. Yoweri Museveni
