Former Makerere University Chancellor, Professor Ezra Suruma, has called on the Ugandan government to use some of the country’s oil revenues to improve the lives of elderly citizens.

Professor Suruma made the statement at a workshop held at the Lugogo UMA Show Grounds. The event was organized by the Ministry of Gender and the Initiative for Social and Economic Rights (ISER).

Recent census data shows that Uganda has 2.3 million elderly people, making up 5% of the population. However, nearly 48% of these elderly people live in extreme poverty, struggling to afford basic necessities such as soap, sugar, salt, and oil. Suruma described this as a great shame for the country.

He pointed out that countries like Norway and some U.S. states, such as Alaska, have created funds that invest 20% of their national oil revenues. The profits from these funds are then used to improve the lives of the elderly. Suruma believes Uganda can implement a similar initiative.

Angella Kasule Nabwowe, the President of ISER, emphasized the need for elderly citizens to have identity cards to access government benefits. Unfortunately, mistakes made during registration by staff at the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) have caused barriers for many elderly people. Nabwowe mentioned that ISER is in discussions with NIRA officials to resolve these registration issues.

Livingstone Ssenkungu, the head of the elderly in Kayunga District, also criticized the government and others for treating the elderly’s concerns in a dismissive and shameful manner.

Former Makerere University Chancellor, Professor Ezra Suruma, has called on the Ugandan government to use some of the country’s oil revenues to improve the lives of elderly citizens.

Professor Suruma made the statement at a workshop held at the Lugogo UMA Show Grounds. The event was organized by the Ministry of Gender and the Initiative for Social and Economic Rights (ISER).

Recent census data shows that Uganda has 2.3 million elderly people, making up 5% of the population. However, nearly 48% of these elderly people live in extreme poverty, struggling to afford basic necessities such as soap, sugar, salt, and oil. Suruma described this as a great shame for the country.

He pointed out that countries like Norway and some U.S. states, such as Alaska, have created funds that invest 20% of their national oil revenues. The profits from these funds are then used to improve the lives of the elderly. Suruma believes Uganda can implement a similar initiative.

Angella Kasule Nabwowe, the President of ISER, emphasized the need for elderly citizens to have identity cards to access government benefits. Unfortunately, mistakes made during registration by staff at the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) have caused barriers for many elderly people. Nabwowe mentioned that ISER is in discussions with NIRA officials to resolve these registration issues.

Livingstone Ssenkungu, the head of the elderly in Kayunga District, also criticized the government and others for treating the elderly’s concerns in a dismissive and shameful manner.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has firmly defended the trial of civilians in military courts, highlighting their role in stabilizing Uganda by swiftly addressing gun-related crimes. In a recent statement, Museveni referred to the military court martial as an “eyokyeero” (reinforcement) that supports civilian courts in handling cases involving firearms.

Museveni explained that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government enacted the law in 2005 to combat rampant criminal and terrorist activities involving firearms. He noted that such crimes posed a significant threat to public safety, necessitating swift and decisive action.

“The move was correct and useful, and it has contributed to the stabilisation of Uganda,” Museveni stated.

Overwhelmed Civilian Courts

The President pointed out that civilian courts are often burdened with a backlog of cases, ranging from murder to land disputes. This overload, he argued, makes them ill-equipped to swiftly address crimes committed by gun-wielding criminals.

“For stabilization, you need speed. These individuals, although not soldiers, voluntarily and with evil intentions acquired killing instruments that should be the monopoly of the Armed Forces,” Museveni emphasized.

Museveni defended the court martial system as a vital tool for ensuring efficiency and protecting public safety. He highlighted its role in removing dangerous individuals from society, noting that these detainees are provided with basic needs while in custody.

He stressed that the court martial operates under Uganda’s broader judicial framework, allowing superior courts to rectify any errors in judgment.

Success in the Karamoja Region

The President highlighted the court martial’s impact in the Karamoja region, where military courts have restored peace by addressing rampant violence. He revealed that thousands of armed youth were apprehended through military operations, and 900 out of 2,000 inmates at Kitalya Prison are Karamojong youths detained by military courts.

“The efficient and focused work of the military courts, supplemented by military operations, legally put away these confused youths from society for a given period,” Museveni said.

Museveni criticized civilian courts for granting bail or endlessly remanding suspects involved in serious crimes, describing such practices as “child play.” He credited the military courts with reducing violence in Karamoja and neighboring regions, adding that local leaders and elders have even requested pardons for some of the detained youth.

Referendum on Court Martial Trials

Museveni suggested that the use of military courts could be subjected to a public referendum in affected areas. He expressed confidence that citizens would overwhelmingly support the practice.

“If we were to have a referendum in the affected districts neighboring Karamoja, I am sure 100% would support the law,” he stated.

Enhancing Efficiency in Military Courts

The President commended the military courts for their contributions to national peace and directed the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) and other army officials to conduct an audit to improve their efficiency.

Ongoing Debate on Military Courts

Museveni’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about the appropriateness of trying civilians in military courts. Critics argue that the practice undermines Uganda’s justice system and violates the rights of the accused. However, the President insists that the court martial remains a vital tool for maintaining stability and ensuring swift justice.

By reinforcing the role of military courts in addressing gun-related crimes, Museveni has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding national security and promoting peace in Uganda.

The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) based in Najjanankumbi has expressed outrage over being excluded from a recent opposition meeting aimed at discussing the release of Rtd. Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye. The FDC has described this exclusion as discriminatory and a deliberate attempt to sideline their faction in national opposition politics.

FDC Leader Criticizes Opposition Actions

Eng. Patrick Amuriat Oboi, the FDC leader, condemned the opposition for locking their party out of the critical discussions. He stated that such actions are an effort to eliminate the Najjanankumbi faction from the country’s political affairs, a move the FDC firmly opposes.

Amuriat also criticized the registration of the FDC under the leadership of Erias Lukwago during the meeting, calling it inappropriate. He emphasized the importance of unity among opposition parties to avoid unnecessary divisions.

Robert Centenary Issues a Warning

Robert Centenary, another prominent leader in the Najjanankumbi faction, warned other opposition parties to steer clear of the ongoing disputes between the Katonga and Najjanankumbi factions of the FDC.

Centenary accused Ssalongo Erias Lukwago, a senior opposition figure, of fueling divisions by publicly undermining the Najjanankumbi group. He stated that such actions threaten to weaken the collective efforts of the opposition against the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government.

Lukwago Responds to FDC Claims

In his response, Ssalongo Erias Lukwago argued that the Najjanankumbi faction has aligned itself with the NRM government, which he claims justifies their exclusion from the meeting. Lukwago maintained that the discussions were centered on priority opposition issues and therefore did not require the participation of the Najjanankumbi faction.

Opposition Parties Excluded

In addition to the FDC, other opposition parties like Jeema and the Democratic Party (DP) were also excluded from the meeting. The conference, chaired by opposition parliamentary leader Joel Ssenyonyi, focused on strategies to strengthen opposition unity and address pressing national issues.

Call for Unity Among Opposition Parties

The ongoing disputes and divisions within the opposition continue to hinder progress toward their common goals. As accusations and counter-accusations fly, leaders from various factions are being urged to prioritize collaboration and dialogue to present a united front in their fight for democracy and justice in Uganda.

The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) based in Najjanankumbi has expressed outrage over being excluded from a recent opposition meeting aimed at discussing the release of Rtd. Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye. The FDC has described this exclusion as discriminatory and a deliberate attempt to sideline their faction in national opposition politics.

FDC Leader Criticizes Opposition Actions

Eng. Patrick Amuriat Oboi, the FDC leader, condemned the opposition for locking their party out of the critical discussions. He stated that such actions are an effort to eliminate the Najjanankumbi faction from the country’s political affairs, a move the FDC firmly opposes.

Amuriat also criticized the registration of the FDC under the leadership of Erias Lukwago during the meeting, calling it inappropriate. He emphasized the importance of unity among opposition parties to avoid unnecessary divisions.

Robert Centenary Issues a Warning

Robert Centenary, another prominent leader in the Najjanankumbi faction, warned other opposition parties to steer clear of the ongoing disputes between the Katonga and Najjanankumbi factions of the FDC.

Centenary accused Ssalongo Erias Lukwago, a senior opposition figure, of fueling divisions by publicly undermining the Najjanankumbi group. He stated that such actions threaten to weaken the collective efforts of the opposition against the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government.

Lukwago Responds to FDC Claims

In his response, Ssalongo Erias Lukwago argued that the Najjanankumbi faction has aligned itself with the NRM government, which he claims justifies their exclusion from the meeting. Lukwago maintained that the discussions were centered on priority opposition issues and therefore did not require the participation of the Najjanankumbi faction.

Opposition Parties Excluded

In addition to the FDC, other opposition parties like Jeema and the Democratic Party (DP) were also excluded from the meeting. The conference, chaired by opposition parliamentary leader Joel Ssenyonyi, focused on strategies to strengthen opposition unity and address pressing national issues.

Call for Unity Among Opposition Parties

The ongoing disputes and divisions within the opposition continue to hinder progress toward their common goals. As accusations and counter-accusations fly, leaders from various factions are being urged to prioritize collaboration and dialogue to present a united front in their fight for democracy and justice in Uganda.

The Uganda Law Council has rejected a foreign lawyer’s application for temporary admission to practice law in Uganda. This decision has sparked widespread discussion, as it touches on issues of professional conduct, legal compliance, and political implications.

The lawyer, from a common law jurisdiction, had sought to represent Dr. Kizza Besigye in a high-profile case before Uganda’s General Court Martial. Dr. Besigye, a well-known opposition leader, is facing serious charges, and the case has stirred political tensions in both Uganda and Kenya.

The Law Council highlighted that Uganda is not a signatory to the East African Community (EAC) Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA), which facilitates cross-border legal practice. Without this agreement, the decision to grant temporary practice rights remains at the discretion of the Council. Historically, such permissions have only been granted for civil cases, not criminal matters like Dr. Besigye’s.

The Council expressed concerns about the political nature of the lawyer’s involvement. It noted that the foreign lawyer’s actions upon arriving in Uganda raised further questions about their intentions. On December 2, the lawyer appeared at the General Court Martial alongside Ugandan attorney Erias Lukwago, presenting themselves as lead counsel for Dr. Besigye despite not having the required certification.

The next day, the foreign lawyer and Mr. Lukwago, accompanied by journalists, attempted an unplanned meeting with the Chief Justice to expedite a ruling related to the case. The encounter, marked by a confrontation with security personnel, was criticized as unprofessional and reflective of a lack of understanding of Uganda’s legal procedures.

The Law Council concluded that these actions breached professional conduct and cast doubt on the foreign lawyer’s motives for seeking admission. The rejection emphasizes the Council’s commitment to upholding the integrity of Uganda’s legal system. It also sends a clear message that political influences should not interfere with professional legal processes.

By maintaining strict adherence to local legal standards, the Law Council seeks to protect the professionalism and credibility of Uganda’s judiciary.

Uganda recently marked the 60th anniversary of the canonization of the Uganda Martyrs in a special ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City. President Yoweri Museveni, represented by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, praised the profound impact Christianity has had on Uganda’s development.

In his speech, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni reflected on how Christianity has added “value” to Uganda by introducing education, scientific knowledge, and social values.

“Christianity added value to our efforts to understand God and the fear of God,” he said. He emphasized how missionaries introduced practices like boiling milk to reduce disease, and how Christian values, such as love for one’s neighbor and hard work, have guided Uganda through both peace and conflict.

The ceremony was led by His Eminence Cardinal Peter K. A. Turkson, Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy for Sciences and Special Envoy of Pope Francis. Cardinal Turkson encouraged Africans to draw inspiration from the Uganda Martyrs, urging them to live lives rooted in faith, integrity, and transparency.

The Legacy of the Uganda Martyrs

The Uganda Martyrs, who were canonized by Pope Paul VI on June 18, 1964, have left an enduring legacy in Uganda and beyond. The 22 martyrs, who included both Catholics and Anglicans, were executed between 1885 and 1887 under King Mwanga II of Buganda for refusing to renounce their Christian faith.

Their unwavering commitment to their beliefs made them a symbol of courage and conviction for Christians worldwide.

Cardinal Turkson, in his address, emphasized the youth of the martyrs, particularly Charles Lwanga and his companions. He highlighted how their dedication to the gospel challenges today’s youth to reconnect with their faith.

He also urged African nations to follow the martyrs’ example in promoting a corruption-free society, driven by gospel values.

Honoring the Martyrs’ Impact on Uganda

Uganda’s religious and political leaders, including Archbishop Emeritus of Kampala Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala, and Bishop Joseph Antony Zziwa, Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, praised the martyrs for their lasting influence on Uganda’s faith.

Archbishop Wamala referred to them as “Uganda’s luminous heroes, models, and mentors of the Catholic faith,” while Bishop Zziwa recognized the martyrs’ significant role in the growth of Christianity both in Uganda and globally.

The Uganda Martyrs’ legacy is not only religious but also serves as a source of national pride. Their shrine in Namugongo, Uganda, has become a pilgrimage site, drawing millions of faithful from around the world each year.

The martyrs’ sacrifice remains a beacon of hope and resilience for Christians facing persecution globally.

A Call for Faith and Good Governance

The theme for this anniversary, “The Blood of the Martyrs: Seeds of Hope for an Integral Ecology,” was reflected in speeches by dignitaries like Uganda’s Ambassador to the Holy See, Stephen Mubiru.

The celebration underscored the martyrs’ role in inspiring governance rooted in integrity, transparency, and social responsibility. Their example serves as a reminder to build a better future based on faith and good governance.

The event in Vatican City saw the attendance of top Ugandan officials, including Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Minister Justine Kasule Lumumba, and several members of Parliament. Even former opposition leaders like Salam Musumba and Mathias Mpuuga were present, showing the unifying power of the Uganda Martyrs’ legacy.

Sixty years after their canonization, the Uganda Martyrs continue to inspire generations with their story of faith, courage, and dedication.

Their legacy extends beyond Uganda, symbolizing hope for the oppressed and serving as a reminder of the importance of faith in overcoming challenges. As Uganda and the world commemorate these martyrs, their example remains a powerful testament to the strength of conviction and the transformative power of faith.