Why Ecstatic Crowds Welcomed Museveni in Kigali
As a political and social analyst in the region, I loath being mistaken to be an apologist for the NRM-led government. But, I agree with dozens of independent analysts that say that much as President Museveni is criticized over his longevity in power, the will and power of the people of Uganda has always reigned since he took power in 1986.
By George Kalisa
Ugandan President Yoweri K. Museveni on June 23 joined about 35 Heads of State and 5,000 delegates that have convened in the Rwandan capital, Kigali to attend the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) that started on June 19.
The moving reception characterized by cheering and chanting of mammoth crowds accorded to Museveni in Kigali’s largest commercial area, Nyabugogo, speaks volumes of the kinships, friendship, solidarity and historic bonds existing between Rwandans and Ugandans, and leaves no doubt that the excellent ties between the two neighbouring commonwealth countries will never be adulterated.
Most economic activities and traffic came to a standstill as inhabitants of the cleanest African city, Kigali, braved long hours of waiting, and struggled to take a glimpse at the longest-serving and visionary Ugandan leader. The pictures have gone viral on social media and his arrival has, indeed, overshadowed arrivals of dozens of his counterparts.
“I have arrived in Kigali, Rwanda for the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). I thank the people of Rwanda for the warm welcome. Murakoze Cyane!” tweeted President Museveni.
Museveni, also, a celebrated pan-Africanist, peacemaker has given his heart and soul even during the most trying moments to promote the values and aspirations that unite the commonwealth nations in Uganda and among many African countries. These are: democracy- human rights – international peace and security – tolerance, respect and understanding – freedom of expression – separation of powers – rule of law – good governance – sustainable development – protecting the environment – access to health, education, food and shelter – Gender equality – importance of young people in the Commonwealth – recognition of the needs of small states – recognition of the needs of vulnerable states and the role of civil society.
Rwandans still have fresh memories of his contribution to the pacification of the region and their nation, especially in the early 90s. And, they have never been treated as foreigners in Uganda where they move in and out at will, a departure from the harsh treatment they were subjected to during the authoritarian regime of ex-President Obote whose rule, Museveni ended. In 1982, Obote chased Rwandans.
Therefore, the emotional reception likened to Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem was genuine, not misplaced and not only speaks volumes of his track record in Africa but also his unbroken commitment to live by the standards of the commonwealth, high sense of humanity and altruism.
The President, known for relating with mostly the ordinary people made ‘undesignated’ stopovers on his itinerary as he headed for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) currently underway in Kigali to greet the wanainchi – at the Gatuna border post and Nyabugogo.
Rwanda and Uganda have weathered through diplomatic and security storms that nearly reigned for pretty much three years, which political analysts blame on our brothers and friends that have masqueraded as Rwanda’s opposition politicians to cover up their selfishness and guilt for terrorist actions. And, this had brought about a crack in the friendship that had caused both visible and invisible pain to the citizens of both nations.
Thus, the outburst of excitement witnessed during President Museveni’s arrival in Kigali hugely explains, in black and white, that people desire to see and enjoy peaceful co-existence. And, both nations, being members of the Commonwealth family have spared no efforts to promote the values and aspirations of commonwealth.
“I don’t like doing this, but if it saves the lives of my soldiers, I will do anything. I thank CMI, under Maj.General Birungi for this excellent operation. This enemy of Uganda and Rwanda was picked up and sent back to wherever he came from,” said Lt. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba through a tweet. Nearly three months ago, Uganda deported Robert Mukombozi a high profile coordinator of RNC activities overseas.
Lt. Gen Muhoozi who is the SPA/SO and Commander of Land Forces (UPDF) and son of President Museveni vowed in February, 2022 to flush out Gen. Faustin Kayumba Nyamwasa’s rebel group, that was declared a terrorist group by the Kigali administration.
“Gen Kayumba, I have warned you enough. You are playing with my country and the results will be terrible for you. RNC has absolutely no space in Uganda,” said Gen. Muhoozi.
In her speech, Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland QC, the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth reminded citizens in the 54 commonwealth member states of the values upheld by the commonwealth family.
“A place where people come together. Where we work together. Where no voice is louder or more important than any other. And where no-one is left behind,” Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland QC.
Even a few pseudo politicians that are obsessed with speaking evil of President Museveni, pray to God for forgiveness in privacy and continue to be haunted by the lies they propagate against an anointed leader who has spent all his lifetime working for the noble cause of establishing lasting peace in Uganda and the region.
As a political and social analyst in the region, I loath being mistaken to be an apologist for the NRM-led government. But, I agree with dozens of independent analysts that say that much as President Museveni is criticized over his longevity in power, the will and power of the people of Uganda has always reigned since he took power in 1986.
Uganda is the only country in Africa where you Christianize a President a ‘funny’ name (read an insult) and go home to have dinner with your family. This is a manifestation of political tolerance and respect for freedom of speech and opinion.
