By Charlotte Kagumaho,
KABALE
The President of the National Unity Platform, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has appealed to the residents of Kabale District to reject division and sectarianism, urging them to collaborate in pursuing the collective well-being of the people.
These remarks were part of his ongoing nationwide mobilization campaign, which commenced this week and included visits to Mbarara, Fort Portal, Kasese, and today, around 12:30 PM, to Kabale District. During this visit, Kyagulanyi and his team were met with enthusiasm from supporters lining the streets, even as the police maintained a visible presence.
Kyagulanyi was accompanied by notable figures such as Mityana Member of Parliament Zaake Francis, Party Spokesperson Joel Senyonyi, and the Party Secretary-General David Lewis Rubongoya, among others. Their journey encountered an initial roadblock set up by security personnel along the Kabale-Kisoro Road, preventing access to Kabale Main Street.
This led to confusion within the team, prompting questions directed at the security team, including Kigezi Region Police Commander Ibrahim Saiga, regarding the inconsistency in treatment compared to other regions where they were welcomed.
Amidst this uncertainty, Kyagulanyi boldly led his team on foot through the bustling streets of Kabale town, amidst chants and cheers from supporters. The group eventually made their way to a scheduled talk show at a Kabale-based radio station, albeit after some negotiation with police and UPDF personnel who initially barred them from the radio premises.
During the 30-minute talk show, Kyagulanyi stressed the importance of unity, highlighting that divisions based on religion or background were irrelevant; all individuals are equal. Furthermore, he addressed the issue of labor exportation by educated individuals, emphasizing that Ugandans should not seek opportunities abroad when valuable job prospects within Uganda are compromised due to the concentration of mineral resources under the control of the ruling family.
Transitioning to local matters, Kyagulanyi inaugurated the NUP sub-region offices for Kigezi along Nyerere Avenue in Kabale town. During a subsequent rally, he discussed pertinent national matters and urged supporters to refrain from divisive behaviors.
He underscored the fact that the National Unity Platform is a party for all Ugandans, extending beyond the central region. He also commended the improved approach of the police towards their activities.
Chairman Nyazi Fred further encouraged the people of Kabale and Kigezi to actively participate in party activities, emphasizing that the National Unity Platform’s reach extends beyond the central region. He expressed satisfaction with the police’s more cooperative stance during this campaign.
Katebire Derrick, Chairperson of the National Unity Platform in Kabale district, dispelled rumors of the party’s absence in the area. He highlighted the immediate need for a party office to enhance mobilization efforts and recruit new members.
