Peace, prosperity are crucial in 2013

She will be remembered by many as an MP, who was not afraid to stand up for what she felt was right, even if her sentiments went against the grain in her own party.

There has been a robust political environment since the now controversial sudden death mid last month of Butaleja Woman MP Cerinah Nebanda. Sadly, it’s shaping up into a duel between the Executive and Parliament, though, ironically, both agree on the need to establish the exact cause of the youthful MP’s death.

The raging conflict over Nebanda’s death is an unfortunate development. Here is a young woman, who, until her death at only 24, had made some tangible contribution to the leadership of her people.

She will be remembered by many as an MP, who was not afraid to stand up for what she felt was right, even if her sentiments went against the grain in her own party. As a member of the ruling NRM, Nebanda was never afraid to challenge its own top leadership on matters of governance.

We believe Uganda has developed a mechanism and adequate capacity in its democratic institutions to resolve any challenges that may arise from time to time. The latest standoff pits a group of MPs, who have collected signatures to cause a recall of a special sitting of Parliament to discuss the Nebanda issue and the recent arrests of the colleagues, and the government, which says such a session is not necessary. The MPs are arguing that the Constitution allows them to demand a special sitting, while the government argues that this would amount to interference in the police investigation into the Butaleja MP’s death. There have been pronouncements on both sides of the divide that could poison the atmosphere and lead to unnecessary political acrimony and perhaps a bitter conflict.

As the year begins, the messages of peace and reconciliation have been ringing out everywhere. This is what the country needs. And as Nebanda’s own mother said, the best tribute to her daughter would be to quickly resolve the issue. The most immediate is preparation for the reopening of schools for the New Year.

We believe this country is mature enough for the political class to use all the available mechanisms, in keeping with the rule of law and other provisions, to maturely tackle any problems. It is in the nature and conduct of politicians to take divergent views of issues, but that does not necessarily mean that they must engage in divisive conflicts.

They must never lose sight of the fact that Uganda, as a nation, is greater than all of them, and that peace and prosperity are paramount.