Political fights stalling development- Mushega
Amanya Mushega says people have introduced the culture of using politics to promote their interests. Photo by Faiswal Kasirye
What you need to know:
FDC official observes that politicians and some religious leaders are involved in political fights instead of guiding the country.
Kabarole- Political fights within government and Opposition political parties are negating economic development, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) western region vice president, Mr Amanya Mushega, has said.
Mr Mushega, who is also the vice chairman for National Consultative Forum (NCF), made the remarks while speaking at the opening of the NCF sensitisation workshop for leaders from western region in Fort Portal Town on Saturday. NCF brings together all the 29 registered political parties in Uganda.
“In Uganda, we take politics as if it’s war, it’s not only at national level but also with in political parties and occasionally in religious institutions. We have introduced sectarian-based political parties,” Mr Mushega said.
Mr Mushega, who formerly served as the secretary general of the East African Community, said many people have introduced the culture of using politics to promote their interests resulting in sectarianism and political wars.
His remarks come at a time when there is infighting within political parties ahead of the 2016 general elections.
In the ruling NRM party, a group allied to party chairman President Museveni has elbowed his perceived opponent for the presidential party flag bearer in 2016, former prime minister Amama Mbabazi from party leadership positions.
Factions developed in FDC where some members are allied to party president Mugisha Muntu and others to former Leader of the opposition in Parliament Nathan Nandala Mafabi.
Speaking at the NCF, the People’s Development Party president, Dr Abed Bwanika, described President Museveni as an underachiever.
Mr Bwanika, however, asked other Opposition leaders to appreciate the work of government where necessary.
“But whenever I say so, some of my opponents say Museveni has bought me off. Does he have money to buy me and at how much?” he asked.
Mr Bwanika said the Milton Obote regime built more than 30 hospitals but NRM government has been a champion in building health centres.
The Electoral Commission chairperson, Mr Badru Kiggundu, asked political parties to embrace NCF ideals.
“Much as the forum was launched in 2010, many of the stakeholders are just getting to know about it.”
Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda, who was expected to open the Forum, did not turn up nor send a representative for the event.
