Bossa, six others vie for UPC top job

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April 22, 2015

Canon Andrew Nyote (R), the UPC Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson addressing a press conference.

Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) has today revealed the 7 candidates aspiring for the party’s presidency. This was disclosed by the party’s Electoral Chairperson at a press held at the party’s headquarters in Kampala.

Canon Andrew Nyote, the UPC Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson disclosed that 9 aspiring candidates picked Declaration and Nomination forms, 7 of those returned the forms and fulfilled the requirements as set out in the party’s EC rules. “The party Electoral Commission is pleased to inform all party leaders at all levels and all party members that there was overwhelming response from potential party leaders,” said Canon Nyote.

The party’s EC chairperson unveiled the 7 successful candidates as Bossa Joseph, the UPC vice president, Kakonge Edward, Ogwal, Ochen Julius, Okello Dan, Okirror Ken and Wandeke Sam. “Those are the 7 who acted in time between 20^thand 24 April 2015. The party EC will complete the processing and submit to the party district conferences,” said the Canon.

The 7 candidates will canvass for votes at district conferences on 27 April to 14 May. The District Committees will nominate their candidates on 16^th May, after the candidates will hold national campaigns that will run for 12 days starting on 23 May. Elections for the new party president will be held on 12 May 2015.

Commenting on the Shs10billion shillings given to political parties by the country’s Electoral Commission, UPC spokesperson Okello Lucima said the party would use the money to help in running of the party activities in the country. He said the money was legit and parliament was going to include it in the National Budget. “The money is legitimate.. We will use it properly to run our party,” stated Lucima. “We in the interparty platform have been pushing for this.”

“We ask the government not to use this chance to use more money from the treasury to run their party business,” cautioned Lucima. “Why the government delayed, we can not speculate. It’s coming too late but we will try to make good use of it,” added the UPC spokesperson.

amayemba@eagle.co.ug

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Universities’ support staff want pay rise too, give gov’t up to July

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Our Reporter

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April 22, 2015

The speaker of Parliament received the petition.

KAMPALA: Non-teaching staff of the five public universities have given government up to July to factor them in the budget for a salary increment or else they will lay down tools.

The support staff of Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Gulu University, and Busitema University, under their union-Public Universities of Uganda Non-Teaching Staff Executive Forum (PUNITSEF), say government is discriminative when it comes to salary increments. PUNITSEF is said to boost of over 4,000 members.

The union’s general secretary Jackson Betihamah, told Eagleonline, that their contribution to universities is as the same as the other groups of people so they don’t see where government draws distinction to increase salaries of one group and leave out others.

“We had a meeting last Friday at Kyambogo and we agreed that if government does not consider us by July we are going on strike,” he said. “We have put our demands to the speaker of parliament and the prime minister in writing, so we assume that government has been informed notwithstanding that none of them has responded to us.”

During the meeting held at Kyambogo University, 13 representatives from the universities described the decision to sidestep them for salary increment as “segregation” and put signature to a petition which was handed over to the Speaker, Rebecca Kadaga’s office on Monday.

The four page document, reads in part: “It is our request that the proposed gradual enhancement of the salaries for the academic staff of public universities in Uganda be reviewed by parliament in the interest of holistically and across board enhancement for all the categories of academic administrative and support staff.”

editorial@eagle.co.ug

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Makerere University makes it to quarters finals

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April 22, 2015

Coach Salim Munubi hailed his players after a 1-1 draw against Kampala University (KU) solidifying their place in the league. Despite KU’s decent play to take all the points through Frank Sebuliba’s goal in the 50^th, Makerere leveled in the 75^th minute through Joshua Lubwama in an entertaining game played at Makerere university grounds. Kampala University failed to qualify for the next stage as they needed a win.

Munubi was delighted with his side’s determined display and he said: “It was a good performance and a good point. It is very pleasing that we are going for quarter finals. Kampala University was in control of the match in the second half but we have had a great, brilliant performance. All those horrible words people don’t like in football are the ones that keep the team winning .We are always hard to beat and to play against.”

He said, “The first thing I told players in the dressing room after first half of the game was what a ,stubborn and hard working team they are .I am proud of the team because they have all the qualities to be a good team. It is lovely to have such qualities and probably is the reasons why we are where we are”.

According to Munubi, it takes a lot of things to be at the top of the group and there are teams below us who are playing sexy football but Makerere University is winning games, topping the group and we still have a chance of qualifying for the semi finals. So to anyone who cocks a snook at the way we are doing it I laugh at them .What we do, we it to our best.

His counterpart Vincent Tumusime, the Kampala University coach, said that they will not give up though they are out of the league .He said, “It is out of our hands now but the game has been a fair play. We are now going for the Inter-university league and hope to perform better depending on what we have revealed today.

“It is a tough time for us. The team has to look up on the weaknesses so that in one way or another we put up a good performance next season. He added: “we gave it everything against Makerere university .The team showed a lot of spirit, effort and energy in the second half .The attitude and pace was there though we lost”.

He congratulated Makerere for getting a point. To him Makerere University needed to win because they had built up very well in the second half. Though Kampala University scored a goal earlier on it couldn’t break down a very determined and well organized Makerere defense.

Simon Kamale, goal keeper Kampala University posed with his Money Gram Man of the match Award that he earned after defending team Kampala University from numerous attacks made by Makerere University.

Policemen were deployed at the grounds to beef up security and ensure a good match .This followed a previous match between Kyambogo University and Makerere University were players and spectators turned violent.

According to Bihimbise a policeman, students are obliged to be disciplined when watching a match and that police had to be at hand to keep law and order.

Upcoming fixtures of the university league

Group A fixtures

Friday 24^th April 2015

MUST Vs UMU

Group B fixtures

Saturday 25^th April 2015

KIU Vs MUBS

Sunday 26^th April

GULU Vs BUS

rzalwango@eagle.co.ug

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Children showcase environmental conservation know-how at children’s climate change conference

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Our Reporter

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April 22, 2015

Standing up are delegates from Rainbow international school (From L-R) Kanish Sharma, Riddhi Lakhotiya and Anya Brown

Children have joined the fight against climate change by lending their voices to the cause at the children’s climate conference in commemoration of world earth day. About thirty schools are attending the event at Sheraton Hotel Kampala.

The event which has been organized by Uganda’s little hands green in collaboration with Vivo energy, NEMA, NFA, and has been hosted by Rainbow international school had been attended by about thirty schools including Green Hill academy, Gayaza junior school, Namugongo girls’ school, Mirembe junior school, Kings way primary school, Seeta parents school, among others.

The conference which was first conceptualized after the “my kid is a superstar” festival in 2013 has grown in leaps and bounds with the first conference held last year at Gems Cambridge international school.

At today’s conference, children are presenting drama skits, poems, songs and PowerPoint presentations on saving the environment.

The most impressive presentations have so far come from Green Hill academy who led by Victor Mwesigwa, performed a very well rehearsed poem offering alternative means of using energy like recycling and use of paper bags.

Namugongo girls’ primary school emotive poem almost reduced the audience to tears as they spoke on behalf of the trees. They “trees ” asked mankind to save them.

According to Joseph Masembe, the proprietor, Uganda’s little hands go green, the conference is a fun way for the children to learnt from each other and also contribute to the struggle.

“We can teach our children in a fun and engaging way. That way they take in all the lessons we give and they then can be the green difference that our world so desperately needs” he said.

Hans Paulsen, the managing director of Vivo Energy has also pledged to the cause.

“Today, there is a pressing need to stop the deforestation that it is occurring in Uganda. Water resource, water catchments areas, agricultural productivity are all at risk of degradation because of all the on-going economic activity. We need to do our part to repair what has been broken in our environment today,” he said, adding that, “The alarm bells keep ringing and we have to answer the call. We know what we have to do to avoid more harm and therefore we must all work even harder to alleviate and even prevent, the worsening effects of climate change.

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Parliament summons Kayihura, Akullo over pension scam

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Our Reporter

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April 22, 2015

Gen. Kale Kayihura — Former IGP Gen Kale Kayihura who is due for retirement in July.

Kampala-Parliament directs that the Inspector General of Police, Criminal Investigation and intelligence Directorate boss to appear before the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs committee next week.

The summons were issued by committee chairman, Stephen Tashobya who directed Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mike Chibita and his team that appeared before the committee that Gen. Kale Kayihura, (IGP) Ms Grace Akullo (CIID) together with the Inspector General of Government, (IGG) Justice Irene Muylagonja to appear next week to explain the circumstances under which police authored two reports about the pension scam.

Local dailies have reported that the Ms Akullo accused two of her detectives who had been handling the pension scam case to have taken bribes and cause the collapse of the case.

Police and IGG were the lead investigator in the Shs165 billion that belonged to pensioners. However, three years down the road, no sustentative report from the investigators.

The suspects in the pension scam were former Public Service permanent secretary Jimmy Lwamafa, Principal Accountant Christopher Obey, former director for research and development Steven Kunsa Kiwanuka, former senior accounts assistant David Japins Oloka and Mr Francis Lubega former information system analyst,

Former accounts assistant at the Ministry of Public Service, Steven Lwanga, Peter Ssajjabi, official at the East African Community Beneficiaries Association and other officials from Cairo bank.

Editorial@eagle.co.ug

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Makerere VC condemns student killing

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Our Reporter

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April 21, 2015

Makerere University Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba Ssentamu has today afternoon condemned the killing of David Ojok by Nkurumah Hall residents. He was speaking at a press conference organized by the University in partnership with the David Ojok Justice Committee.

Speaking at the press conference Prof. Ddumba on behalf of the university council, Management and students termed the incident as an act of violence by unruly students. “We condemn in the strongest terms this act of mob justice,” said Prof. Ddumba. “We have condemned the continuous unruly behavior of the university students. Our sincere condolences go to the bereaved family, workmates, friends and the entire nation.”

During the conference, Prof. Ddumba urged students to avoid bad behavior, he revealed that the University management was reviewing laws rules and regulations that would be mandatory to every student at university.

He said the regulations would be effected next academic year and for a student to be cleared for lectures, he or she would first append his signature to the University rules and regulations. “The reviewed rules will take effect after approval of council and will be effective next academic year. All students are required to sign the rules and regulations,” stated Prof. Ddumba. “Unruly behavior will no longer be tolerated at the university.”

He revealed plans of constructing a perimeter wall around Makerere University and installation of about 20 cameras to tighten security around campus. “During the next financial year, we will start construction of the perimeter wall in phases, the president made the pledge and we are going to chase on it,” said Prof. Ddumba.“

Okot P’Bitek Jr, the Chairperson David Ojok Justice Committee called upon anyone with information about perpetuators of the crime to forward it to the police. He took the opportunity to remind the MUK administration to fulfill their responsibilities. “The university was 2^nd respondent, we know that there are 2 sides in this case, criminal and civil, we shall use all means available to get justice,” warned Okot.

“We are in contact with the deceased’s family members. We can’t share what we discuss here. We shall give them something,” said Prof. Ddumba in response to Okot’s comments.

David Ojok, a software engineer and Makerere Alumna was killed by students on Sunday April 21, at Nkurumah Hall. He had just developed applications that would test soil PH and diabetes.

amayemba@eagle.co.ug

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John ‘Shoes’ Moshoeu passes on

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April 21, 2015

KICK OFF has been informed that one of South Africa’s greatest ever footballers, John ‘Shoes’ Moshoeu, passed away today after a long battle with stomach cancer.

Shoes, 49, was one of the stars of Bafana Bafana’s victorious 1996 Africa Cup of Nations team and held a special place in the hearts of South African football fans.

We at KICK OFF deeply mourn the passing of a legend, whose greatness was amplified by his modesty and kindness.

Moshoeu began his career in Diepkloof with local amateur side Blue Whales before joining Kaizer Chiefs’ reserve side. After failing to break in to the first team, he joined Giant Blackpool where he teamed up with the likes of Fani Madida and Jury Bantwana.

In 1991 he helped Blackpool reach the infamous JPS Cup Final, where he ended up on the losing side against Dynamos.

Moshoeu returned to Amakhosi for his second spell in 1993 before leaving for Turkey, where he had stints with Genclerbirligi and Fenerbahce.

His return to South Africa saw him re-uniting with Amakhosi for his third and final spell and he helped the team win back-to-back League titles under Ted Dumitru.

Moshoeu’s form also saw him selected for the 2004 African Nations Cup at the age of 38.

Shoes was a true role model, and his passing is a great loss to football. Our condolences to his family and friends.

RIP John Lesiba Moshoeu

18 December 1965 – 21 April 2015

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DP to repeat elections in areas failed by chaos

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April 21, 2015

Democratic Party Spokesperson, Kenneth Paul Kakande (R) address the media at the head quarters during the party’s press conference on April 21, 2015. PHOTO BY ISAAC KASAMANI

The Democratic Party (DP) says there are no internal fights within the party despite the chaos that has marred their Party primaries.

Speaking to journalists during their weekly press briefings at City House- Kampala, the DP spokesperson, Kenneth Paul Kakande referred to the disagreements they have had during primaries as a sign of democracy arising from people holding different opinions.

“I don’t call that disunity. What is happening in DP is what happens in democracy. It is a competition of ideas not disunity,” Kakande said.

Kakande however said the Party has canceled all the electoral outcomes from the areas that were characterized by chaos and disagreement and the whole process will be-done.

The areas whose elections will be repeated are; Kawempe- Bataka, Makerere one parish- zone B and C, and Kiwatule- Nakawa. No date has been set for re-elections in these areas. “We said voting will be repeated because as a party, we operate in truth and fairness,” Kakande said.

He also called upon all the defunct party members who stood as independents to come and contest if they feel they can do a much better job than the current members of the party’s National Executive Committee.

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Ugandan among 4 killed Unicef staff in a-Shabab attack in Somalia

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April 21, 2015

Unicef today released the names of four of their colleagues who were killed in a horrific attack as they travelled to work on Monday in Garowe, northern Somalia. Among those killed is one Ugandan woman identified as Ms Brenda Kyeyune, who had managed social mobilization and communication initiatives in support of polio eradication in Somalia since 2014.

Others killed include; Mr Payenda Gul Abed, who had been coordinating Unicef’s polio immunization efforts in Garowe since May 2014, Ms. Woki Munyui, who had been supporting Unicef’s education work in Somalia since 2007 and Mr. Stephen Oduor, who had been undertaking vital administrative work for Unicef Somalia since 2010.
Unicef honoured their sacrifice and described them as heroes who were dedicated to building a better world for the children of today.

Five other Unicef staff are being treated for injuries sustained in the attack. Two local security personnel, unrelated to Unicef, were also killed as a result of the attack, and four others injured.

Unicef said, “Our thoughts are with the families of all who died, with those who were injured, and with all our staff who continue to work tirelessly in Somalia to support women and children.”

Below Unicef gives key facts about the incident

DETAILS ON UNICEF STAFF ATTACKED IN SOMALIA; FOUR KILLED, FIVE INJURED

What more information do you have about the attack?
The UNICEF staff members were being transported in a van from the Guest House where they were staying to the UNICEF office. The van stopped outside the nearby FAO compound to collect a staff member when there was an explosion. The cause of the explosion is being investigated. It is believed it was a suicide bomber.

What are the updated casualty figures and what is happening to the injured?
Four UNICEF staff members were killed in the attack and their families have been notified. Five other UNICEF staff members were injured. Four are being airlifted to Nairobi; the fifth has only minor injuries. Two Somalia security personnel were also killed in the attack. They were guards at FAO.

What is the nationality of those UNICEF staff who were killed?
Of those who were killed, two were Kenyan nationals, one Ugandan and one colleague was a national of Afghanistan.

Was this a direct attack on UNICEF?
The vehicle was clearly marked with “UN”. We do not yet know if it was an attack on the United Nations, or specifically on UNICEF.

Have there been attacks like this before?
There have been several incidents in Somalia where the UN has come under attack.

On 25th December 2014 there was an attack against the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) at the Mogadishu Airport where many UN personnel are based which resulted in numerous deaths including of three AMISOM soldiers and a civilian contractor. On 19 June 2013, a truck exploded outside the gate of the UN Common Compound in Mogadishu where UN staff lived and worked and attackers then entered on foot. One international staff member, three contractors and four Somali security guards were among those killed. On 29 October 2008 two UN Somali staff, a local security advisor and a driver were killed in an explosion at the UN compound in Hargeisa which was part of a wave of attacks in Hargeisa and Bossasso.

What work is UNICEF doing in Somalia?
UNICEF has been working to improve the situation of Somali women and children since 1972 and has developed a nationwide network of partnerships with both international and national Non-Governmental Organizations and Community Based organizations to deliver projects and services in the areas of water, education, health and nutrition and child protection. The programme encompasses emergency response operations as well as early recovery and development approaches. UNICEF’s programme is implemented and monitored through the presence of staff based in Mogadishu, Galkayo, Baidoa, Hargeisa and Garowe.

Will UNICEF evacuate from Somalia?
UNICEF is constantly monitoring the security situation in the areas where its staff are working. Security experts are currently in Garowe and will assess the situation. It is too early to make any decisions.

Do you know who was responsible for the attack?
This is a question for the security services in Puntland. AlShabaab has claimed responsibility.

What kind of security does UNICEF have in Garowe?
UNICEF takes security extremely seriously and has measures in place to provide protection to all our staff. However we do not discuss specific details of security measures.

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DP denies knowledge of Shs10bn for Political parties

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April 21, 2015

The Democratic Party (DP) has denied receiving any money from the Electoral commission (EC) as announced yesterday by the EC chairperson, Badru Kiggundu.

Addressing journalists at the Electoral Commission premises, Kiggundu said the Commission has given all registered political parties an amount totaling to Uganda Shs10 billion, as facilitation for campaigns during the forth-coming elections.

Kiggundu said a communication was sent out to all the Political parties with representation in Parliament to avail their bank accounts details. Though Forum for Democratic Change acknowledged receipt of the communication, DP today denied knowledge.

Kiggundu said its only six parties that will have a share of this money including DP.

DP spokesperson, Kenneth Paul Kakande today told journalists during at the weekly Party press briefings in Kampala, that they have not received any money on their bank account as asserted by EC boss.

“We have not seen any money. I even do not know if the party will accept any money coming from the Electoral Commission,” Kakande said.

According to Kakande, DP cannot accept this money unless the Party’s National Executive Council decides if it is worth it taking that money.

Kakande also said the manner in which the money has been given is unfair. He criticised the arrangement for giving the money to DP, Federal for Democratic Change (FDC), and the National Resistance Movement (NRM) which disfavors the other parties yet their others that are in more need of the resources.

“We think 400 million cannot do much in the Presidential and Parliamentary campaigns,” said Kakande.

gamme@eagle.co.ug

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Bossa, six others vie for UPC top job

Universities’ support staff want pay rise too, give gov’t up to July

Makerere University makes it to quarters finals

Children showcase environmental conservation know-how at children’s climate change conference

Parliament summons Kayihura, Akullo over pension scam

Makerere VC condemns student killing

John ‘Shoes’ Moshoeu passes on

DP to repeat elections in areas failed by chaos

Ugandan among 4 killed Unicef staff in a-Shabab attack in Somalia

DP denies knowledge of Shs10bn for Political parties

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