Stanbic Bank
Stanbic Bank
18.8 C
Kampala
Stanbic Bank
Stanbic Bank
Home Blog Page 166

Address the Non-implementation of UNGA resolution 1608 and the Ambazonian crisis

Writer of the article David Matsanga.

Date: 26th November 2024!
To: The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), UNSC, African Union (AU), and other relevant international bodies



EXECUTIVE SUMMARY



We seek through you as (REPRESENTATIVES OF THE TWO AFRICAN STATES (NAMES WITHHELD FOR PARTIES ONLY ) that have moved to ICJ to address the non-implementation of UNGA Resolution 1608 (XV), which provided for the reunification of the British Southern Cameroons with the Republic of Cameroon under agreed conditions, and the ongoing crisis in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon.

Pan African Forum Ltd believes that the marginalization of the Anglophone population, the centralization of power in violation of reunification agreements, and escalating violence in the region necessitate immediate international attention. That is why we have moved to both high courts of the World to seek intervention through legal means .

Pan African Forum Ltd believes that in doing this proposal that outlines actionable steps for peaceful conflict resolution will be attained , the protection of human rights, and the establishment of a framework for governance that respects the original terms of reunification will stop the violence against the people of Ambazonia .

BACKGROUND:

Pan African Forum Ltd reminds the world that the UNGA Resolution 1608 (XV) (1961)-Affirmed the results of the 1961 plebiscite where British Southern Cameroons chose reunification with the Republic of Cameroon over integration with Nigeria.

Reunification was premised on federalism, granting Southern Cameroons (now the Anglophone regions) Ambazonia significant autonomy. Which could lead to full status.

But things have changed and bloodshed is the daily being poured in the mountains and valleys of Ambazonia. Post-Reunification Developments: that never worked. The federal system was abolished in 1972 by referendum, transforming Cameroon into a centralized state. This move violated the spirit of Resolution 1608 and the guarantees of autonomy for the Anglophone regions.

The current crisis: Since 2016, protests over linguistic, cultural, and political marginalization have escalated into a violent conflict. Government forces and armed separatists have committed human rights abuses, with over 6,000 deaths and 800,000 displaced people as of 2023.

PAN AFRICAN FORUM LTD PROPOSAL OBJECTIVES

1. We ask the UNSC and UNG to revisit and enforce UNGA Resolution 1608 to Ensure adherence to the principles of self-determination and federalism as outlined in the resolution.

2. Promote Peaceful Dialogue and Negotiation: Facilitate inclusive discussions between the Cameroonian government, Ambazonian representatives, and international stakeholders.

3. Address Human Rights Violations: Hold perpetrators accountable on both sides especially the Government and President Paul Biya through international mechanisms and ensure the protection of civilians.

4. Develop a Governance Framework:
Create a roadmap for governance that respects the cultural, linguistic, and political identity of the Anglophone regions.

ACTION PLAN

1. Establish an International Mediation Committee
Lead Organizations: African Union (AU), United Nations (UN), and a neutral international mediator.

2. Objective: Facilitate dialogue between the Government of Cameroon and Ambazonian representatives.

3. Timeline: Immediate commencement of talks within 3-6 months. Deliverables:

A ceasefire agreement between warring parties. A roadmap for long-term political solutions.

4. Conduct an Independent Investigation of Human Rights Abuses: Lead Organizations: UN Human Rights Council, International Criminal Court (ICC). Scope: Investigate allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and violations of international humanitarian law by all parties.
Publish findings to ensure accountability

5. Deliverables: A comprehensive report within 12 months. Recommendations for sanctions or prosecutions of responsible individuals.

6. Develop a Framework for Autonomy or Federalism
Proposed Model: Establish a federated structure, granting the Anglophone regions (Ambazonia) political, administrative, and cultural autonomy.
Empower regional governments to manage local resources, education, and legal systems while remaining part of a united Cameroon. Implementation Timeline: Draft legislation by mid-2025, with implementation by 2026.

7. International Monitoring and Support
Deployment of Peacekeepers. If necessary, deploy a neutral peacekeeping force to protect civilians during the negotiation and implementation phases. Economic Reconstruction Plan. Provide humanitarian aid and rebuild infrastructure in conflict-affected areas.

8. Pan African Forum Ltd has in mind expected outcomes that include reduction in violence and human rights abuses. Restoration of trust between Anglophone and Francophone communities. A sustainable governance framework that respects regional autonomy and self-determination. Strengthened rule of law and accountability mechanisms.

9. Pan African Forum proposes a budget and funding
Estimated Budget: Mediation and dialogue: $5 million. Investigation and reporting: $10 million. Reconstruction and humanitarian aid: $50 million. Funding Sources: Contributions from the UN, AU, European Union, and other international donors.


OUR REQUESTS:

Pan African Forum Ltd is concerned that violence in Ambazonia has reached very dangerous proportions and there is need for the UNSC or USA to step in now not tomorrow. The failure to implement UNGA Resolution 1608 and the continued neglect of the Ambazonian crisis undermine global commitments to self-determination, human rights, and conflict resolution.

Pan Africa Forum Ltd is hopeful that this proposal offers a roadmap to address the root causes of the crisis and achieve a peaceful and just resolution. We urge the USA, UNSC UNGA, AU, and international partners to act decisively and prevent further escalation.

Pan African Forum Ltd calls upon friends like Susie Wiles whom we have worked with on African issues to assist Ambazonia people to have life. Cameroon Government has not stopped violence and they have failed to prosecute those commanders who have conducted the war in Ambazonia.


Submitted by: Dr. David Nyekorach Matsanga
PAN AFRICAN FORUM LTD
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS EXPERTS
INTERNATIONAL LEGAL EXPERTS
CONFLICT RESOLUTION EXPERTS
africastrategy@hotmail.com
www.panafricanforumltd.com


Thanks

Dated: London United Kingdom

Stories Continues after ad

BoU under investigation as billions are lost in mobile Money Application switch

Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, the Deputy Governor.

Bank of Uganda (BoU) is under intense scrutiny following revelations of massive loss of billions in a mobile money application switch tender.

Initially, the tender was won by Moroccan frim but money hangs-on instead conniving with procurement and rescinded the tender to one of the Arab countries which has taken over.

However, as they could execute the assignment of installing the Mobile Money Application switch, it is reported that they wired the money back to the Arab country in connivance with some Bank of Uganda top staff.

The above revelation has pushed President Yoweri Museveni to institute an investigation in the Bank of Uganda.

In the wake of yesterday, a probe was raised after counterfeit currency worth approximately Shs500 million was discovered in the vault of Government-owned bank- PostBank in Mbale branch. BoU is mandated with regulating and disbursing money and one wonders how commercial bank can distribute counterfeit notes without BoU knowledge.

The investigation, led by police in the Elgon Sub-region and PostBank, resulted in the arrest of several bank and security officials.

Elgon police spokesperson Rogers Taitika confirmed that the case is before the courts of law.

Preliminary investigations suggest that a syndicate involving several bank personnel was behind the counterfeit money, according to a police detective.

“Each bundle had genuine notes covering the fake notes. There is a loss of money worth Shs500 million or more,” the detective said.

Early this month, another scandal erupted at BoU as its official stole old currency notes meant for destruction.

Charles Kasede Ochieng, former Head of Verification at the Bank of Uganda (BoU), was sentenced to three years in prison by Grade One Magistrate Esther Asiimwe for abuse of office and acquitted him on the embezzlement charge due to lack of evidence.

In CCTV footage, was seen placing bundles of money into his pocket meant for destruction and discreetly walking away. The court determined that these actions violated his role, classifying it as an arbitrary abuse of his official position.

From November 2018 to August 2019, while working as Head of the Verification Unit at the BoU’s Mbale branch, Ochieng engaged in actions that led to his conviction.

State Attorney Nicholas Kawooya, representing the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), called for a sentence of three and a half years, citing a breach of trust by Ochieng. Kawooya emphasized the seriousness of the crime, noting that as a verification officer, Ochieng held a role of integrity in a crucial institution that upholds the country’s monetary system. Kawooya argued that Ochieng’s act of taking old notes designated for destruction demonstrated corrupt intent and damaged BoU’s trust in its employees.

Stories Continues after ad

Kampala Parents School resolves issues with teachers as they claim we have no problem with Sudhir

Kampala Parents School teachers, parents and other staff after a meeting with owner Sudhir Ruparelia.

Kampala Parents School has resolved issues highlighted by a section of teachers and non-teaching staff.

In a series of meetings involving all stakeholders, they resolved their differences and undertook resume normal operations.

“We have honorably committed ourselves to the course of education and that is education first and the rest later. However, as mature and responsible people we reached an understanding and we have promised to look into the issues brought forward by staff” Ms Daphine Kato, the Principal of the school said.

After the meeting with top management, they met school proprietor whom teachers said had no problem with him.

Teachers at Kampala Parents School had demanded for pay increment, citing delayed salaries, low wages, and allegations of preferential treatment. The protest has sparked widespread concern, especially given the school’s status as one of Uganda’s most prestigious institutions.

In a video that rapidly went viral, teachers expressed their frustrations through placards and impassioned speeches.

The school, owned by tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia, Ms Kato described the strike as minor and stated that normal teaching activities had resumed.

Stories Continues after ad

Parliament tasks gov’t to explain circumstances surrounding of Besigye, Kamulegeya

Kizza Besigye at court martial.

Parliament has tasked government to clarify the circumstances under which former presidential candidate Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya, were forcibly taken from Kenya.

Last week, Dr. Besigye and Hajji Kamulegeya were charged with four counts, including the possession of firearms at Riverside apartments in Nairobi, Kenya, and holding meetings in Greece and Switzerland with the alleged intent to undermine the security of the Ugandan army. They have since been remanded to Luzira Prison.

Speaker Anita Among issued the directive after Kira Municipality MP, Ssemujju Nganda, raised concerns over the manner in which Besigye, one of the promoters of the newly formed political party, People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) was abducted from Kenya, where he had traveled to attend a book launch by former Justice Minister, Martha Karua.

Ssemujju also called on Parliament to join other organizations in condemning Besigye’s abduction from Kenya. “The abduction of Besigye has been widely condemned by the United Nations, lawyers, and human rights defenders. Even the Uganda Human Rights Commission has condemned his abduction and called for his immediate release. This Parliament should also demand an explanation from Kenya and ask whether it still subscribes to the East African Community (EAC) brotherhood,” he said.

Hamson Obua urged Parliament’s leadership not to rush into condemning Besigye’s abduction, noting that Besigye’s case will be supported by evidence presented by the prosecution, and its outcome will be publicly known. He also declined to comment further on the matter, as it is still under court proceedings.

“I am aware that the issue raised by Ssemujju is a matter before the court, as established by the UPDF Act. What I can confirm on behalf of the government based on publicly available information, is that Besigye was arrested, produced in court, charged, and remanded to Luzira Prison,” Obua stated.

Earlier Internal Affairs Minister, Gen. Kahinda Otafiire has said former presidential candidate Kizza Besigye left Uganda and entered Kenya without a gun.

In an interview with Eagle Online Gen. Otafiire said Dr. Besigye said there is no way security at Entebbe Internal Airport could allow retired Col. Kizza Besigye board a plane while armed. He revealed that his investigation at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport also indicate Besigye entered Nairobi unarmed.

“Besigye left Entebbe without a gun and he entered Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with a gun, so where did he get the gun from? As to what happened thereafter, we don’t know. As Minister of Internal Affairs, I had to verify by ringing Nairobi?” Gen. Otafiire said.

The minister who is a former External Security Organisation (ESO) Director General is also known for speaking his mind freely contradicts both Kenya and Uganda security operatives that claimed a pistol was found on Besigye at his Riverside apartments in Nairobi.

Stories Continues after ad

Uganda Baati wins best quality roof sheets award at the People’s Choice Awards 2024

Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala – Uganda Baati Limited has been recognized as the manufacturer of the Best Quality Iron Sheets at the prestigious People’s Choice Awards 2024. This becomes one of the many awards for quality roof sheets awarded to the company since 2020.

The award was received by Lynn Vivienne Mirembe, the Brand Manager at Uganda Baati, during a ceremony that brought together Uganda’s leading brands and industry leaders.

Hon. Betty Amongi, the Minister for Gender, Labour, and Social Development represented the Vice President as Guest of Honor and noted that the People’s Choice Awards celebrate excellence and highlight the critical role quality plays in driving Uganda’s socio-economic progress.

She applauded all the winners for their dedication to meeting the highest standards, contributions toward improving the lives of Ugandans and for setting a strong example for others to follow in strengthening the foundation of Uganda’s growth.

The People’s Choice Awards, conducted annually, capture consumer perceptions of quality across various categories. The survey is conducted in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). Uganda Baati has been a recipient of a number of People’s Choice Awards in the steel category including Best Roofing and Steel Company 2020-21 and Best Quality Iron Sheets Award 2022.

Commenting on this achievement, Uganda Baati’s CEO, George Arodi, expressed his gratitude to the consumers and reaffirmed the company’s pledge to maintain its leadership in quality and innovation within the building solutions sector.

“We have always believed that innovation is key to staying relevant in a competitive market,” Arodi explained.

“Our customers’ needs are constantly changing, and it is our responsibility to anticipate these changes and deliver solutions that not only meet but exceed their expectations,” he stated.

This milestone comes in a year of significant celebration for Uganda Baati, as the company marked 60 years of service in Uganda. Since its establishment in 1964, Uganda Baati has been a trusted provider of innovative and high-quality building solutions, continually evolving to meet the needs of its customers and contribute to the country’s development.

“We have over the years expanded our product range to include complete building solutions and have embraced digital channels that make it easier for customers to access our products. The future holds an even greater promise as we explore new technologies and sustainable practices that will define the next chapter of our growth,” Arodi said.

Stories Continues after ad

NEMA issues ultimatum to Entebbe Municipal Council over Nkumba dumpsite mismanagement

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has ordered the Entebbe Municipal Council to urgently address mismanagement at the Nkumba Waste Dumping Site or face its closure within three months.

The directive comes after inspections revealed significant non-compliance with environmental regulations, posing severe risks to both the surrounding ecosystem and public health.

In a press release, NEMA stated, “The management of the Nkumba Waste Dumping Site falls short of compliance requirements under the National Environment Act, Cap. 181, the National Environment (Waste Management) Regulations S.I. 49 of 2020, the conditions of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) approval, and the Guidelines for the Management of Landfills in Uganda, 2020.”

The authority emphasized that illegal dumping activities in wetland areas and a lack of proper containment measures are contributing to the degradation of the fragile environment. NEMA warned that if the council fails to comply by February 11, 2025, the site will be closed indefinitely.

NEMA directed the Council to cease all dumping activities in the wetland sections of the Nkumba Waste Dumping Site. The area was illegally encroached upon, and NEMA has emphasized that it must be restored to its original state as outlined in the map provided to the council. Furthermore, the council must rehabilitate all degraded areas surrounding the landfill to prevent further environmental damage and bring them as close as possible to their natural condition.

The council has also been instructed to conduct a comprehensive Environmental Compliance Audit of the site’s operations within three months. This audit, mandated under the National Environment (Audit) Regulations, is expected to assess adherence to environmental standards and identify areas that require immediate improvement. In addition, the council must take steps to secure the site by constructing a perimeter wall and gate to prevent unauthorized access, which has contributed to the site’s mismanagement.

NEMA has demanded the development of a robust system to manage these byproducts, including leachate collection and treatment facilities, to ensure that no pollutants flow into Lake Victoria. The council must also establish a functional gas collection and emission control system. This will involve monitoring all sources of emissions and submitting annual air quality reports for review and compliance.

To improve waste transportation, the council has been instructed to develop and maintain access roads leading to the site, ensuring they are safe and efficient for waste management operations. Finally, given the Nkumba site is nearing full capacity, the council must identify and secure an alternative site for waste disposal to prevent future overflows and mismanagement. These measures, if implemented, are aimed at addressing the environmental and health risks posed by the current state of the dumping site.

“The current state of the Nkumba Waste Dumping Site poses significant environmental and health risks to neighboring communities and Lake Victoria, a key water resource for Uganda and the region.”

NEMA reiterated its commitment to enforcing sustainable waste management practices across Uganda. 

“Entebbe Municipal Council must take immediate steps to rectify the situation. Failure to comply will result in the site’s closure and further legal action,” the authority warned.

Stories Continues after ad

Uganda Airlines leases A320-200 to boost winter operations

Uganda Airlines has announced the lease of a mid-range Airbus A320-200 from DAT, a Lithuanian airline, to strengthen its operations during the busy winter season.

The short-term wet lease, which includes pilots and cabin crew, aims to address capacity challenges and enhance the airline’s regional and international service offerings.

The leased aircraft, a 9.3-year-old Airbus A320-200, will supplement Uganda Airlines’ CRJ and A330 fleets, providing additional capacity while other aircraft undergo routine maintenance.

According to the Uganda Airlines Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki, the lease will alleviate congestion on routes such as Johannesburg and Kinshasa and bolster services to key destinations like Nairobi, Lagos, and Abuja.

“We are delighted to announce this partnership with Lithuanian Airlines, which will support our operations,” said Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki.

She added, “With the previously leased aircraft, we have seen significant growth in demand across our network. With the new lease, we shall continue to increase capacity deployment for the number of seats on specific routes to sustain this demand.”

The 156-seater aircraft offers a two-class cabin configuration, with 12 business class and 144 economy seats, along with enhanced capacity for passenger baggage and cargo. Uganda Airlines emphasized that the additional capacity is crucial for the festive season, which traditionally sees a spike in leisure and business travel.

“Leasing this A320 is intended to cushion the operation, especially in the festive season, as travel tends to spike due to leisure and business travel,” Ms. Bamuturaki explained. “We also look forward to enhanced cargo freighting for our customers.”

Established in 2019, Uganda Airlines is Uganda’s flagship national carrier, offering passenger and cargo services within Africa and to select international destinations. The airline’s vision is to be “the Airline of Choice for The Business and Leisure Traveller.”

Travelers and businesses are encouraged to take advantage of the increased capacity as Uganda Airlines continues to expand its footprint in the region.

Stories Continues after ad

Police investigate G4S security guards over Shs1b cash-in transit theft

Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police

Police in Old Kampala are investigating the stolen funds amounting to Shs1,069,420,000 and $14,474 (equivalent to Shs53,467,462) reported on November 19, according to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police.

Preliminary findings suggest that two G4S security guards, while transporting cash from Lubowa to Nakasero, allegedly conspired to rob the bullion van, registration number UAJ 199T.

The vehicle was later abandoned in Nabunya, Rubaga Division, along with two rifles.

Owoyesigyire confirmed that police immediately launched rigorous investigations, leading to the arrest of one suspect, Ambrose Richard Otim, in Kwania District. Otim was found in possession of Shs117 million, believed to be part of the stolen money.

“Investigations are ongoing, and more details will be shared as soon as they are available,” said Owoyesigyire.

He assured the public that all efforts are being made to recover the remaining funds and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Stories Continues after ad

Indomie crowned best Instant Noodles at People’s Choice Awards 2024 for third consecutive year

Indomie, Uganda’s best-loved instant noodles brand, has once again solidified its position as a market leader by winning the Best Instant Noodles category at the prestigious People’s Choice Awards 2024. This marks the third consecutive year Indomie has been recognized for its commitment to quality, affordability, and accessibility.

The awards ceremony took place at the Imperial Royal Hotel in Kampala.

Speaking after receiving the award, Kennedy Omondi, Principal at Indomie Uganda, emphasized the brand’s consumer-focused approach. “Indomie is Uganda’s best-loved noodles, made primarily from wheat and available in delightful flavours such as Chicken, Beef and Supa Mojo (Vegetable). At Indomie, our promise is simple: quality above all else. But a promise alone is not enough; we consistently deliver on it, ensuring that every interaction with our brand exceeds expectations. We don’t compromise on quality, and we prioritize affordability and availability, making Indomie a trusted choice for millions of Ugandans.”

The Guest of Honor, Betty Amongi, Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development who was also accompanied by the Inspector of police, while representing the Vice President of Uganda applauded the winners for their significant contributions to Uganda’s economic and social development.

“The People’s Choice Awards represent a resounding vote of confidence in the growth and development of Uganda’s manufacturing and services sectors under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the NRM government.

Recognizing at least 60 outstanding companies this year highlights the resilience and innovation of our business community. For this, we celebrate our investors and entrepreneurs who continue to invest significant capital in Uganda, assured of the government’s unwavering support.”

Indomie instant Noodles Uganda is officially distributed by Dembe Trading Enterprises Ltd, playing a critical role in ensuring the brand’s availability nationwide.

Mr. Anil Damani, Group CEO, remarked, “We go to every part of the country because we want to make sure every Ugandan has access to Indomie Instant Noodles. Our commitment to making Indomie affordable and available is central to our mission of serving consumers across Uganda.”

The People’s Choice Awards are determined through extensive consumer surveys conducted across Uganda’s major towns and cities, with a sample size of 40,000 respondents. The recognition reaffirms Indomie instant Noodles’ position as a household favorite, celebrated for its superior quality, diverse flavors, and exceptional accessibility.

Indomie is a globally renowned instant noodles brand known for its delicious flavours and high-quality products. With a strong presence in Uganda, Indomie continues to bring joy to households by offering a convenient, nutritious, and affordable meal option for all.

Stories Continues after ad

Foreign Affairs Ministry recalls Amb. Dickson Ogwang from Sudan duty over gun fate

Amb. Ogwang Okul

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recalled Ambassador Dickson Ogwang Okul, the Foreign Service Officer Grade II in Port Sudan, Khartoum, over allegations of indiscipline after a recent gun violence incident in Lira City.

Ambassador Ogwang was recorded on phone camera on November 17, 2024, at the Lango Cultural Centre in Lira City East Division where he allegedly drew a gun before clan leaders before police officers disarmed him.

In a letter dated November 20, 2024, addressed to the Foreign Affairs Ministry Permanent Secretary, Mr. Vincent Bagiire Waiswa directed the recalled ambassador to hand over his office and report for further guidance.

“You should therefore hand over the office in accordance with Section F-d of the Uganda Public Service Standing Orders (2021) and report to the undersigned for further guidance,” reads in part the letter.

Additionally, Mr Bagiire stated in a separate letter dated November 18 that although Mr Ogwang was authorized to travel to Uganda from February 23 to March 4, 2024, and to South Africa from March 4-9, 2024, there was no formal approval for him to leave his assignment in Port Sudan at the time of the incident.

“Whereas it is legal to possess a firearm, Section 21 (2) of the Firearms (Amendment) Act, 2006 prescribes that; any person who displays or attempts to display any firearm or imitation firearm in a public place in such manner as to cause alarm to any member of the public commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment not exceeding one year or a fine not exceeding 60 currency points or both. “Uganda Airlines

 “In line with the above, the act of drawing a gun at members of the public would ordinarily constitute a criminal offence to be handled by the relevant competent authorities, as evidenced by your apprehension for questioning at Lira Central Police Station. We await the outcome of this process,” the letter reads further.

Responding to the developments in the aftermath of the gun violence, Ambassador Ogwang Okul, who also serves as the clan head (Awitong) of the Palaocol Clan, wondered how a letter regarding his recall leaked through social media and not his office directly.

He acknowledged the distress the news had caused, particularly given the ongoing cultural leadership debates in Lango. “I want to assure you all that the situation is more complex than it may seem,” Ogwang said in a statement made on November 22, urging people to consider the intricate political and cultural dynamics at play.

The Ambassador reminded his supporters that the journey toward a better future for Lango is challenging, requiring resilience, unity, and determination. “The vision for a better Lango is not an easy one to achieve, but we will continue striving for it, regardless of setbacks,” he said.

Mr Ogwang urged those standing with him to remain resolute in their shared vision, stressing the importance of staying focused and ignoring unfounded rumours.

Stories Continues after ad