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Gov’t ready to increase annual district road funding to Shs3b — Museveni

By
Our Reporter
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President Museveni campaigning in Kasanda District.

President Yoweri Museveni has indicated that the government is prepared to substantially raise annual road maintenance funding to districts from Shs1 billion to as much as Shs3 billion, but only where local authorities can properly account for current allocations and justify the need for more resources.

Speaking at a public rally in Kassanda District, Museveni, who is also the National Resistance Movement presidential flag bearer questioned why some roads remain in poor condition despite regular disbursements from central government.

“The road I have just used is in a very bad state, yet every year we send Shs1 billion to the district. So the question is simple: where does that money go?” Museveni said.

He cautioned district leaders against mismanagement of public funds, arguing that many service delivery failures are rooted in weak oversight and lack of accountability at the local level. 

The President urged voters to be more vigilant when choosing leaders, warning that poor leadership choices directly affect community welfare.

Museveni said government is open to increasing funding if districts make a clear case for it. 

“If the money is not enough, they should inform us. Even if it means raising it to Shs3 billion, we can do that,” he noted.

He reaffirmed the NRM government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure nationwide, stressing that better roads are essential for trade, access to markets and overall wealth creation.

The President further advised district officials to openly communicate challenges they face instead of remaining silent while residents endure poor infrastructure. 

He also reminded the gathering that sustained peace and stability under the NRM have made long-term investment in infrastructure possible, calling on residents to continue supporting the ruling party to sustain development gains.

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Gen Muhoozi meets Turkish firm Yapı Merkezi over Uganda’s Malaba–Kampala SGR project

By
Our Reporter
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Delegation from Yapı Merkezi, a leading Turkish construction company selected to build the first phase of Uganda’s Standard Gauge Railway, met with Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

The Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, today met a delegation from Yapı Merkezi, a leading Turkish construction company selected to build the first phase of Uganda’s Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Malaba to Kampala.

The delegation was led by Mr. Sami Özge Arıoğlu, a Board member, who was accompanied by General Manager Mr. Mustafa Şahin Kopuz, Project Coordinator Mr. Fevzi Mert Öz, Local Representative Mr. Albert Ateenyi Rugaju, and Design Engineer Mr. Hacı Hasan Kaygısız.

The meeting was held at the Special Forces Command (SFC) headquarters in Entebbe.

The team briefed the CDF on the project designs, systems, and the timeline, with particular focus on a 2km tunnel that will pass through military land in Mbuya.

Gen Kainerugaba discussed the upcoming schedule with the team and urged them to deliver a high-quality project.

The delegation assured the CDF of high quality work and timely delivery of the project. They also thanked him for the meeting.

The full construction works for this first phase are set to begin in 2026. The total length of the railway will be 325 km, with the main line covering 227 km and 68 km for sidings. The project is scheduled to take 48 months to complete. The strategic goal of the project is to link Uganda to Kenya’s SGR, significantly reducing transport costs and time to the port of Mombasa.

The project includes the design, construction, and supply of rail vehicles for a standard-gauge railway that meets international standards.

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High Court to rule on Walukaga disqualification case on Monday

By
Our Reporter
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Singer turned politician Mathias Walukaga

The High Court has set December 22 as the date for delivering its judgment in a petition challenging the disqualification of Busiro East parliamentary aspirant Mathias Walukaga.

Justice Simon Peter Kinobe fixed the date on Tuesday after Walukaga, accompanied by his lawyers Alex Luganda and Elias Nalukoola appeared before court for the hearing of the matter. The case pits Walukaga against the Electoral Commission (EC) and a registered voter, John Lubowa Kilimiro, who lodged the complaint that led to his disqualification.

At the hearing, the court was informed that the respondents were yet to file their responses. Justice Kinobe subsequently issued firm timelines, directing all parties to submit their written arguments between December 17 and December 19, paving the way for a final decision.

“If all parties comply with the timelines given, the judgment will be delivered on Monday through the Electronic Court Case Management Information System,” Justice Kinobe ruled.

Walukaga, a member of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and a well-known cultural figure, ran to court last week protesting the EC’s decision to cancel his nomination. According to court records, he was duly nominated on October 23, 2025, to contest for the Busiro East parliamentary seat in Wakiso District.

However, on November 25, 2025, the Electoral Commission reversed his nomination after Kilimiro petitioned the Commission, arguing that Walukaga did not meet the minimum academic qualifications required of a Member of Parliament. The EC concluded that Walukaga had presented an expired Mature Age certificate at the time of nomination.

The Commission based its decision on the certificate issued to Walukaga on June 12, 2023, which indicated an expiry date of June 12, 2025. In the EC’s view, the certificate had lapsed by the time nominations were conducted in October 2025.

Walukaga has strongly contested that interpretation. In his petition, he argues that the Mature Age certificate issued by the Islamic University in Uganda was duly equated by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) to Advanced Level standards, as required by law.

He further maintains that a Mature Age certificate only expires if it is not used within two years to enroll for further studies. Walukaga told the court that he enrolled at St. Lawrence University in August 2023, well within the validity period and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration.

Drawing from past election disputes, Walukaga’s legal team argues that the EC acted unreasonably and outside the law by disregarding his academic progression and the NCHE’s equivalency guidance. They insist that once a candidate uses a Mature Age certificate to gain admission to a recognized university, the question of expiry becomes moot.

Describing the EC’s decision as “unjust, unfair and illegal,” Walukaga is asking the High Court to quash the Commission’s ruling and reinstate his candidature, warning that voters in Busiro East risk being denied their preferred choice at the ballot.

The court’s ruling, expected just weeks before polling day slated for January 15, 2026, is anticipated to have far-reaching implications not only for the Busiro East parliamentary race but also for how academic qualifications are interpreted in future electoral disputes.

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What went wrong with the promised Uganda Airlines?

By
Simon Kabayo
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Uganda Airlines plane at Entebbe International Airport.

Uganda Airlines is facing renewed scrutiny following a series of flight delays and cancellations that have left passengers stranded thus public criticism, particularly on social media.

Over the past week, intending travellers have shared accounts of missed flights and confusion at Entebbe International Airport, accusing the national carrier of poor communication and inadequate customer support. Some passengers said they were left waiting at check-in counters as schedules changed without clear explanations.

In a statement issued on December 13, the airline acknowledged disruptions to its scheduled operations, saying it was working to restore normal services. However, the explanation did little to calm frustrated travellers online.

The debate intensified after businessman Andrew Mwenda posted a video on X on December 15 showing congested check-in counters, unattended luggage, and stranded passengers.

“The tragedy happening at Uganda Airlines is far beyond even my worst predictions. One plane is stuck in Lagos, another in London, passengers stranded and the airline rapidly falling apart,” Mwenda wrote, in comments that quickly drew public attention. In the background of the video, a woman’s voice claims airline staff abandoned their counters after passengers complained about poor service.

Responding to the criticism, Uganda Airlines Executive Director Jenifer Bamuturaki strongly defended the airline, attributing the disruptions to unavoidable technical challenges rather than mismanagement.

“We’re having what we call aircraft on ground—one CRJ and one Airbus. There’s one in Lagos because we cannot find the spare part. It’s not because we don’t have it in our stores, but because it’s not a part that is ordinarily stocked,” Bamuturaki said.

She dismissed claims that aircraft were simultaneously stranded in multiple destinations.

“It is not true that we were stuck both in Lagos and London. As we speak now, the Airbus from London landed about an hour and a half ago. The disruptions are simply because we’ve had technicals,” she explained.

Bamuturaki noted that Uganda Airlines operates a small fleet, making it vulnerable when even a few aircraft are grounded.

“Remember, we have seven aircraft, including a leased one. When two are out, that already causes a knock-on effect; flights get delayed, flights get cancelled. That’s really what is causing all this,” she said.

She further pointed to operational constraints beyond the airline’s control.

“There’s something people may not have noticed. In the industry we have what we call NOTAMs—Notices to Airmen. Many regional airports we operate have restrictions on when we can land or take off. Once you have a delay at Entebbe, it affects your ability to land or depart elsewhere, forcing further delays and creating a ripple effect,” Bamuturaki added.

Acknowledging passenger frustration, the executive director conceded that the airline has fallen short of customer expectations.

“No, that’s not true that we are indifferent. We are letting down a lot of our customers. This is a high season, people are travelling for Christmas, children are finishing school and coming home. These disruptions are very annoying, and that’s why we’re seeing this negative but positive criticism,” she said.

She argued that public anger reflects emotional investment in the national carrier.

“The fact that people are upset means they have passion for Uganda Airlines. How we communicate and manage expectations is very important,” Bamuturaki said.

On mitigation measures, she explained that affected passengers are being assisted where possible.

“We are booking some passengers on different airlines, but because it’s peak season, most flights are already full. We are rescheduling others on our own flights and booking hotels. We have also optimised our schedule so that we don’t over promise until all aircraft are back on the line,” she noted.

Looking ahead, Bamuturaki said the airline’s focus is on consolidation rather than expansion.

She noted, “In 2026, we are not launching new routes. We want to improve our customer experience and business processes so that we can offer a consistently good service,” 

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Will darkness be sorted as UEDCL receives Shs190b loan from Absa Bank to upgrade electricity distribution network?

By
Francisco Adongo
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Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited and Absa Bank officials at the signing to finance the upgrade and expansion of the electricity distribution network.

The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has secured a loan worth $50 million (approximately Shs190 billion) from Absa Bank Uganda to finance the upgrade and expansion of the country’s electricity distribution network, in a move aimed at supporting Uganda’s economic and industrial growth.

The loan agreement was formalised through a memorandum of understanding [MoU], following approval from the Energy ministry, and Finance ministry of Finance, both shareholders in the government-owned power distributor.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Kampala, the UEDCL Managing Director, Paul Mwesigwa, said the financing of the project marks a major milestone, noting that it demonstrates UEDCL’s ability to attract competitive funding from development partners.

“This loan agreement with Absa Bank will benefit Ugandans. It shows that as a government-owned company, UEDCL can raise capital at a financing rate of less than 8 percent gross of tax, compared to 28 percent previously, with the loan repayable over five years,” Mwesigwa said.

He added that the loan being tied directly to UEDCL’s balance sheet is a strong vote of confidence in the company’s governance, creditworthiness, and performance.

“This is a fundamental demonstration that a government company can go to the market and secure funding based on its own performance. We are committed to putting this money to good use and repaying it on time. According to our five-year strategic plan, the electricity network requires about US$ 995 million over the next five years,” he noted.

Mwesigwa explained that the funds will be used to finance key infrastructure projects, including the construction of new substations and the upgrading of overloaded feeders and transformers.

Areas earmarked for intervention include Kasangati and Gayaza, where a substation will be constructed around Magigye–Kasangati, as well as Nakasero Hill, Kololo, William Street, and Makerere, which will benefit from a major substation intended to stabilize power supply within Kampala’s urban areas. Additional designs also cover Mukono, Nantabulirwa village, and surrounding locations.

“As a result, within the next two years since we took over, we expect most parts of the country to experience improved and stable electricity supply,” Mwesigwa said.

He further highlighted that reducing financing costs from 28 percent to 8 percent will ultimately benefit consumers through lower electricity tariffs, while also enhancing network stability.

According to Mwesigwa, network optimisation has already contributed to a 13 percent increase in power supply, rising from 986 megawatts to a peak of 1,115 megawatts. He acknowledged that increased power purchases from the transmission system have placed strain on the network but said financing of this nature will help normalize those pressures and strengthen system reliability.

UEDCL Board Chairperson Lydia Ochieng-Obbo commended the partnership, describing it as a strong example of collaboration between the public and private sectors.

“This partnership brings together a public sector entity and a private sector institution, with the private sector supporting the Government of Uganda in mobilizing much-needed capital to invest in, repair, and expand the electricity distribution network,” she said.

Absa Bank Uganda Chief Executive Officer David Wandera said the lender is committed to supporting Uganda’s development, emphasizing the critical role of electricity in driving industrial growth and improving livelihoods.

“At Absa, we believe electricity ignites growth by supporting industry and improving people’s lives. Through this $50 million facility, we are proud to play a significant role in transforming the energy sector, the economy, and the livelihoods of Ugandans,” Wandera said.

Now faced with infrastructural challenges, UEDCL officially took over power distribution from UMEME in the country on March 31, 2025, marking the end of UMEME’s 20-year concession, bringing electricity distribution back under government control.

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CDF Muhoozi tasks newly promoted UPDF generals with greater responsibility

By
Simon Kabayo
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Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has reminded newly promoted Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Generals and senior officers that advancement in rank comes with heavier responsibility and higher expectations and advised them to rise to the demands of leadership with integrity and wisdom.

Speaking during a pipping ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya, Gen. Kainerugaba said the promotions marked a deeper obligation to the nation and to the soldiers under their command.

“This ceremony is not merely a change of insignia or ranks; it represents greater responsibilities,” Gen. Kainerugaba said. 

He added,“Your subordinates will now look up to you for mentorship, wisdom, and solutions.”

The CDF, who also serves as Senior Presidential Adviser for Special Operations, drew from scripture to underscore the weight of leadership entrusted to the officers.

“The Gospel of Luke reminds us in chapter 12, verse 48: ‘From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked,’” he said.

Expounding on the message, Gen. Kainerugaba noted that the promotions reflected the confidence and trust placed in the officers by the nation and the UPDF leadership.

“You have been given much, the trust of the nation, the confidence of your commanders, and the faith of the soldiers you will lead. In return, much more is now expected. Your judgment must be sharper, your integrity stronger, and your commitment to the soldiers under your command more absolute,” he added.

Turning to the national political environment, the CDF called on Ugandans to maintain peace during the electoral period, encouraging citizens to participate in voting and then return home peacefully.

“There will be sufficient scrutiny by agents, media, and international observers to ensure a transparent and credible process,” he said.

He warned that any attempts to disrupt peace would be firmly handled within the confines of the law.

“Those who will try to cause trouble, as I have heard some people proclaim, will be dealt with swiftly and decisively with all the tools at our disposal, and in accordance with the law,” Gen. Kainerugaba cautioned.

“We strongly urge all political actors during this electoral season to abide by Independent Electoral Commission guidelines and cooperate fully with security forces for the safety of all. We appeal to citizens to cast their votes peacefully and go home, not hang around polling stations,” he added.

Gen. Kainerugaba also paid tribute to the Commander-in-Chief, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, crediting his strategic leadership for transforming the UPDF into a professional force contributing to peace and stability in Uganda, the region, and across the continent.

On behalf of the promoted officers, the Chief of Joint Staff and most senior among them, Lt. Gen. Jack Bakasumba, thanked the CDF and the Commander-in-Chief for the confidence entrusted in them.

“We pledge to uphold the UPDF values of integrity, courage, and discipline in the execution of our duties,” Lt. Gen. Bakasumba said, while also commending the CDF for his strategic leadership and mentorship of the force.

The ceremony was attended by senior UPDF leadership, including the Commander Land Forces, Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga; Commander of the UPDF Air Force, Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi; and the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Ms. Edith Butuuro.

Among the newly decorated officers were Lieutenant Generals Jack Bakasumba and Francis Okello; Major Generals James Kinaalwa, Deus Sande, Charles Byanyima, William Bainomugisha, and Christopher Ddamulira; and Brigadier Generals McDans Kamugira, Fred Zakye, and Paddy Ankunda, among others.

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Sheebah to headline New Year’s Eve lakeside live concert at Speke Resort Munyonyo

By
Our Reporter
-

Kampala’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are set for a glamorous finale as music star Sheebah Karungi headlines a high-energy countdown show at Speke Resort Munyonyo Lakeside on December 31, with organisers setting the gate fee at Shs20,000 only.

The award-winning singer announced the show in her trademark confident style, inviting fans to usher in the new year with fireworks, music and an all-night party by the lake.

“Hello, you’re talking to the right chick, to the right mother, to the right sexy mamacita because on 31st December, Speke Resort Munyonyo, we’re doing fireworks, we’re doing champagne, we’re doing cocktails, we’re doing DJs till morning,” Sheebah said.

The event promises a full New Year’s Eve experience, blending live performance with a premium party atmosphere at one of Kampala’s most iconic venues.

Sheebah.

“31st Sheebaholics, only 20,000, Speke Resort Munyonyo, and all my friends are going to be there. Don’t play with me, I have cool friends,” she added.

Sheebah said the night will be about togetherness, joy and ushering in the new year as one big family, combining celebration with moments of reflection.

“On December 31, I’m going to be vibing you, I’m going to be entering the new year with you, and I’m going to be praying with you. Isn’t that what family is about? See you,” she said.

With fireworks lighting up Lake Victoria, DJs spinning till morning and Sheebah Karungi’s electrifying performance, the Speke Resort Munyonyo lakeside show is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated and affordable New Year’s Eve celebrations in Kampala.

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Health Ministry launches mobile TB clinics and AI X-Ray machines to strengthen fight against Tuberculosis

By
Our Reporter
-

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana Atwine, has today flagged off a fleet of mobile TB clinic trucks aimed at reaching remote and underserved areas of the country to fight against Tuberculosis (TB).

“These mobile clinics and AI-powered x-ray machines will revolutionize TB detection and treatment, ensuring no one is left behind, regardless of their location,” Dr. Atwine stated.

She added, “This dual intervention represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to eliminate tuberculosis from Uganda.”

The launch ceremony also showcased the delivery of ultra-portable, AI-powered digital x-ray machines, provided by the U.S. Embassy in Uganda. These advanced devices will enhance diagnostic capacity, enabling faster and more accurate TB screenings in both rural and urban settings.

“The United States is proud to partner with the Government of Uganda in the fight against tuberculosis,” the U.S. Ambassador said. “This collaboration brings together cutting-edge technology and healthcare infrastructure to address one of Uganda’s most pressing public health challenges. We believe this will make a real difference in the lives of thousands of Ugandans.”

The mobile TB clinics are fully equipped with medical personnel, diagnostic tools, and essential TB medications. They are designed to deliver on-site testing, treatment, and counseling services, particularly in regions where healthcare facilities are scarce. Health officials say this initiative will expand access to TB care and curb the spread of the disease in high-burden areas.

The newly delivered AI-powered x-ray machines, which will accompany the mobile clinics, can analyze chest x-rays in real-time using advanced algorithms. This capability significantly reduces diagnostic time and allows healthcare workers to detect TB cases at earlier stages, improving treatment outcomes.

According to the World Health Organization, Uganda remains among the countries with the highest TB burden globally, with thousands of cases going undiagnosed annually. Experts say the integration of mobile clinics and AI diagnostics will help bridge gaps in detection and treatment, advancing the country’s broader health objectives.

Dr. Atwine concluded the event with a call to action for all Ugandans to participate in TB prevention efforts. 

“Together, with innovation and collaboration, we can eliminate tuberculosis and build a healthier Uganda for all,” she urged.

As the mobile clinics embark on their nationwide mission, Uganda is taking a stride toward TB elimination, driven by technology, strategic partnerships and a shared commitment to improving public health.

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Police launch “Arrive Alive” campaign ahead of Christmas season

By
Francisco Adongo
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SP Michael Kanaura, Pro-Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety.

As the festive season approaches, the Uganda Police Force has intensified road safety operations nationwide under the code name “Arrive Alive” to reduce accidents and ensure safe travel for all road users.

In the past week alone, police have apprehended 644 drivers for traffic violations. These include 325 for operating vehicles in dangerous mechanical conditions, 124 for reckless driving, 123 for illegal vehicle modifications, 23 for driving under the influence of alcohol, and 17 for driving without a valid license. Other offences included dangerous loading, abandoned vehicles, and carrying passengers in unsafe positions.

Speaking to the press, SP Michael Kanaura, Pro-Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, warned motorists to strictly adhere to traffic regulations.

“Buses traveling distances of over 300 kilometers must not undertake return journeys within 24 hours, and only buses with valid route charts and PSV licences will be allowed to operate,” Kanaura emphasized.

He added, “All drivers must possess valid driving licences, and bus drivers must display their driver badges and a clear photo inside the bus. School buses and unauthorized private vehicles are not allowed to operate as passenger service vehicles.”

The police also reiterated other key safety measures for motorists, including ensuring vehicles are in good mechanical condition, with functional brakes, proper tire pressure, and adequate lighting. Drivers must adhere to speed limits, particularly in areas with high pedestrian activity, and avoid overtaking in risky areas such as hills, corners, and busy sections of the road. The use of mobile phones or other distractions while driving is strictly prohibited. All passengers should wear seatbelts, and motorcyclists and passengers must wear helmets. Drivers must also refrain from drinking and driving.

SP Kanaura further stated, “Failure to comply with these directives will result in arrest and legal action. Road safety is a collective responsibility, and the public must remain vigilant and alert while traveling.”

The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety is working closely with government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, religious institutions, and the media to ensure safer roads throughout the festive period. Public education and awareness campaigns are also being conducted through various platforms.

Motorists and members of the public are urged to report traffic-related incidents through the toll-free numbers: 0800 199 099 / 0779 999 999.

“Let us all work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable festive season for everyone. Arrive Alive!” Kanaura noted.

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Gen Sejusa questions EC over Walukaga disqualification, brands academic requirements ‘colonial.’

By
Simon Kabayo
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Singer turned politician, Mathias Walukaga.

Former coordinator of intelligence services Gen David Sejusa has criticised the Electoral Commission (EC) decision to disqualify the National Unity Platform (NUP) Member of Parliament for Busiro East candidate, Matthias Walukaga. 

The EC disqualified Walukaga following a petition filed on 4 November 2025, alleging that he lacked the required academic documents and had used an invalid Certificate of Mature Age/Aptitude Test. 

In a communication dated 25 November 2025, Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama confirmed that Walukaga did not meet the legally required minimum academic qualification for a Member of Parliament.

In a statement via X (formerly Twitter) Sejusa questioned the legal basis used by the EC chaired by Justice Simon Byabakama, particularly the reliance on academic qualifications as a threshold for political office.

“So, why was Matthias Walukaga disqualified by the Justice Byabakama Commission?” Sejusa asked, before attacking the rigid and discriminatory interpretation of the law.

He challenged the distinction the law makes between different academic levels and argued that formal education, especially English proficiency is a poor measure of intelligence or leadership capacity.

“I have employed S.6 graduates, S.4 graduates and even P.7 graduates, and many times the only difference I have found is in English pronunciation, not even understanding. How can that be the test of our intelligence and ability?,”Sejusa said. 

According to Sejusa, the problem lies not only in the law itself but also in how it is interpreted by those in authority.

“The bigger problem is the lack of consciousness of the African elite in charge. If they were conscious, interpretation of such stupid laws would be liberal, not restrictive, and would benefit society and the individual, not oppressive colonial institutions, ”he said. 

On the specific issue reportedly cited in Walukaga’s disqualification, the expiry of a mature entry certificate, Sejusa dismissed the argument as illogical and legally unsound.

“How can this expire if it is what enabled him to be admitted for a university degree? Once a mature certificate takes you to university, it cannot expire. It becomes part of your qualifications permanently, ”he asked. 

To illustrate his point, Sejusa likened the certificate to a used travel ticket.

“If I buy a train ticket from Kampala to Cairo and use it, can an inspector later say it expired mid-journey? Expiry only applies if the ticket is not used. Once it is used, it is used ,”he said.

Sejusa went further to argue that the controversy surrounding Walukaga’s disqualification exposes a deeper structural problem in Uganda’s political system, calling for urgent legal reforms.

“The main point in all this is this: amend the law and remove academic qualifications as a requirement for political office. Politics is a pig job, very dirty, and should require no academic qualifications to work in a pigsty,” he said. 

He argued that many academic papers held by politicians are either forged or irrelevant to the practical demands of leadership at the grassroots.

“By the nature of our society, underdeveloped and still under a colonial yoke, speaking English should not be the main worry for a local leader. An MP should ensure there are pit latrines in villages, boreholes are funded, money is not stolen, and security is maintained,” Sejusa said. 

Sejusa urged Uganda to abandon Western benchmarks which do not reflect local realities.

“We cannot use the same standards set for literate imperial societies of the West. We need a new test, a new requirement that fits our situation and our problems,” he said. 

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