The situation in Uganda is dire and demands immediate attention: a series of floods have claimed the lives of at least six innocent people, with more casualties expected. The floods are a direct consequence of controversial channel works authorized by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his protégé, Hamis Kiggundu (aka Ham), despite lacking prior approval from environmental and city authorities.
But here's where it gets controversial: the works were illegal from the start, and Ham, a lawyer by profession, should have known better. Without an environmental impact assessment, Ham's actions have exacerbated the flood crisis, causing significant damage to businesses and the tragic loss of life.
And this is the part most people miss: General Museveni, who personally greenlit these illegal activities, remains silent in the face of this catastrophe. Despite warnings from sensible citizens, the President and his favored investor have recklessly endangered the capital's drainage system, leading to preventable deaths and business losses.
Incredibly, all authority in Uganda is vested in President Museveni, also known as Tibuhaburwa, which translates to 'a man who cannot be advised.' Consequently, government institutions tasked with maintaining order, including parliament, police, city authorities, and NEMA, are paralyzed, unsure of how to respond.
The only voice of dissent belongs to Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who has tirelessly warned of the impending disaster. Meanwhile, those responsible for reining in Ham's chaos are preoccupied with their political campaigns, seemingly indifferent to the suffering they could prevent. This begs the question: how many more lives must be lost before those in power intervene?
However, there is a glimmer of hope. The timing of this crisis coincides with an opportunity for Ugandans to exercise their constitutional right to vote. The 1995 Uganda Constitution empowers the people to delegate authority to leaders who will act in their best interests. It is now up to the citizens to hold their leaders accountable and vote wisely, ensuring that their power is not abused and their concerns are addressed.
The fate of Uganda hangs in the balance. Will the people rise to the occasion and demand change, or will they allow the current leadership to continue unchecked? The choice is theirs, and the consequences will shape the nation's future.
