Embrace government policies Otafire tells opposition
By Our reporter
KITGUM – Minister of Internal Affairs Kahinda Otafire has urged the opposition to put aside their difference and National Resistance Movement, the ruling party to embrace government policies for faster economic development.
Speaking at the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Janani Luwum day in Kitgum, Friday 16th, 2024 Otafire warned the opposition against making reckless and alarmist statements.
Janani Luwum was murdered on 16th February 1977 on the orders of the then president of Uganda, Idi Amin Dada together with the former inspector of Police, Wilson Erinayo, and the former defense minister Oboth Ofumbi for criticizing the status quo.
“I was a young man in foreign affairs officer 47 years ago when I witnessed the condemnation of Late Janan Luwum at Nile Hotel. Today when I see leaders engaged in reckless behavior that divides us and not unit us, I foresee danger. Was Janan worthy to die than Iddi Amin? Once bitten twice shy. Learn to stand up and speak, and do not quarrel, that is why I get differences with opposition. They stand up and start throwing stones. Where are you taking us, when you get another Idd Amin, do not blame me.” warned Ottafire.
He added, “There is freedom of speech and association. We have no choice but to be Ugandans. Our differences are our strengths and work together to be a strong Uganda. No religion should have a monopoly. Let us use our religious differences to have a united Uganda. I appeal to all Ugandans to leave beliefs that divide us and instead embrace practices that promote prosperity.”
Otafire added, “Let us accept the way we are. You have a role to play, be careful, and cautious where you are going. You have one life. Do not choose a leader that will lead to problems. Uganda has been there without you and it will be there without you.”
Chief Justice Owinyi Dolo also emphasized unity, “We own this country equally, what role have you played, what can I do to have a better country, we have one Uganda It belongs to all of us. We all have to exhibit humility.”
He also called for fast-tracking of fundamental recovery development for northern regions that suffered 30 years of insecurity.
However, the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) instead urged the government to emulate the former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Janani Luwum by prioritizing the basic needs of the citizens and preserving all forms of human rights.
The head of Media and Communication at UPC, Mr Faizo Muzeyi, says the party appreciates both the living and spiritual sacrifice that defined Archbishop Luwum in all his life and works as he sacrificed himself and stood firm against all undemocratic excesses including abductions, torture, and death of people as well as preaching against human rights abuses by security organs.
Muzeyi noted that the country is still facing several challenges including; acts of human rights violations, high costs of living, and poor service delivery which need immediate attention as Uganda celebrates the day.
Kizimba Mugalu Arch Bishop Church of Uganda appealed to those grabbing Church land to desist from the practice.
“When you grab church land, you are inviting God to punish you. I appeal to religious leaders to make good use of Church land.”
President Yoweri Museveni described Luwum as a brave person who died for speaking what was in his heart by criticizing Iddi Amin for human rights abuse.
He called on the people of northern Uganda to embrace peace tolerance, tolerance and embrace the Parish Development Model.
