By Prof Mushemeza Dickens
Dear Country men and women, happy celebrations on this NRM day!
Congratulations to H.E. YK. Museveni, the President of the Republic of Uganda, Cabinet, Parliament, the Courts of Judicature, and entire citizenry!
There are key achievements that make it worth to celebrate.
The NRM is known for its ideology. With key principles of Patriotism; Pan Africanism; democracy; and Social- economic transformation; Ugandans should be able to analyze and appreciate where we came from, where we are, where we are going; and why we are taking that direction. NRM beats all political organizations in Uganda in terms of Ideological clarity and consistency.
Uganda formerly a generator of refugees is now a host to many Africans in need. This shows how stable and peaceful Uganda is! No wonder we have successfully hosted international meetings: Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers; Non Aligned Movement Summit; G77 + China; IGAD; all in a space of three weeks.
Uganda embraced a liberalisation policy that has enabled the private sector to contribute to the development of the economy meaningfully. This has been important in service delivery in all sectors, something that would have been difficult for the state to achieve alone.
The discovery of oil and gas that is entering the production stage is yet another important achievement. This will create more employment and boost the demand side/ purchasing power of citizens in the economy. What we need is to perfect the principle of forward and backward linkages in the economy to prepare for the post oil and gas era.
Under NRM, we have witnessed popular participation of citizens in their governance. The LC system, affirmative policy and expanded governance institutions, all allow popular participation and coexistence of the people.
The UPDF and other security agencies have demonstrated the significance of the core role of coercive forces in state building and stability. This is a plus to NRM.
The respect of civil liberties is also an achievement under NRM. We see freedom of worship around us. The role of faith institutions can not be underestimated in restoring “broken hearts” of citizens!
Furthermore, initiation and implementation of pro people grassroot programmes such as the Parish Development model give hope to us. We need to emphasize mindset change as a core in the Implemetation of the PDM.
As I conclude this missive, let me point out our greatest challenge as NRM ideological strategists and members/ supporters. Corruption has perverted our society. We have reached a point where the rhetoric question cannot be avoided: _who will bell the cat?_
I wish you happy celebrations!!!
Regards,
Hon. Prof. Mushemeza Elijah Dickens (PhD)-MP Sheema County South.
