By Frank Kamuntu
A section of Banyarwanda community in Uganda led by the famous Bavandimwes; Dr Lawrence Muganga and Sabavandimwe Frank Gashumba met HE Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to report to him a barrage of challenges they face in Uganda.
The meeting that was held yesterday at State House Entebbe has re-ignited the hope of the millions of Ugandan Banyarwanda who have for long been facing citizenship challenges, denying them passports and national IDs.
After the meeting, Gashumba took to his social handles and inked thus; ”Yesterday was historic in the Banyarwanda struggle against denial of citizenship rights by some elements at immigration/NIRA. Yesterday was the beginning of the end of impunity, malice and abuse that the long suffering Banyarwanda have endured at the hands of some chauvinists.”
In the same spirit, Muganga a highly esteemed academic pundit penned a soothing letter praising Museveni for accepting to battle the challenges of these Banyarwanda.
Below Is Muganga’s Letter
Your Excellency, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,
On behalf of the Ugandans of the Banyarwanda tribe, I extend our deepest gratitude for your resolute commitment to addressing the discriminatory challenges we have faced. Your decision to ensure that Banyarwanda Ugandans are granted National IDs and passports without prejudice is a monumental step towards unity and equality in our beloved nation.
Your vow and promise to rectify inconsistencies within the law and its implementation not only restore our constitutional rights but also reinforce the principles upon which Uganda stands. We eagerly anticipate the realization of your promise, which will undoubtedly bring relief and hope to many who have long awaited this moment.
We also wish to express our heartfelt thanks to His Majesty the King of Buganda, along with his esteemed lineage and the entire Buganda Kingdom. Since the 1800s, the Buganda people have graciously welcomed, hosted, and integrated the Banyarwanda community. Their hospitality and solidarity have been pillars of strength for us throughout history.
To all Ugandans from various tribes and walks of life, we are profoundly grateful for your friendship and support. Your embrace of diversity enriches our nation and exemplifies the true spirit of Ubuntu.
A special note of appreciation goes to Mr. Frank Gashumba for his unwavering dedication to advocating for the rights of the Banyarwanda people. His efforts have been instrumental in bringing our concerns to the forefront – thank you my brother Frank Gashumba.
As scholars and citizens, we remain committed to engaging with and uplifting our communities. We look forward to a future where every Ugandan enjoys equal rights and opportunities.
Thank you for dedicating nearly four hours of your valuable time to listen to and understand the challenges faced by the Ugandan Banyarwanda. Your inspirational solutions to these issues demonstrate your exceptional leadership, and we are sincerely grateful.
Your vow and promise to rectify these issues inspire us, and we stand ready to support your efforts in any way we can.
May God bless you abundantly, Mr. President, and may He continue to guide you in leading our nation towards unity and prosperity.
With profound respect and gratitude,
Prof Lawrence Muganga
FOR GOD AND MY COUNTRY”.
