By Evelyn Masaba

The best word to describe Fort Portal is quaint, a pretty little town surrounded with hills on your way to Kasese, Bundibugyo and Mbarara. With a 3 and a half hour ride from Kampala when using a personal vehicle and a little longer when using public transportation, it has become a traveller’s destination for the weekend.

The town is located in Western Uganda with a beautiful view of the Rwenzori mountains and also serves as the official headquarters of Kabarole district.

Fort Portal derives its name from the late Sir Gerald Portal, a British officer during the colonial era of East Africa. When you are driving to Fort Portal as the rest of the drive through the Ugandan country side, you will be amazed by the lush green beauty that you encounter the further you leave the city behind. You will constantly be amazed at what you see across the sprawling hills filled with forests and farmland plus occasional homesteads every after a distance.

The town has a cool feel to it, a lazy sleepy town feel that will make you relax when you get there. Everything in Fort portal moves at a simple graceful pace, the city has meticulous boulevards running through the centre with clean roads and curbs. You will find a number of Restaurants and hotels along the streets with banks and stores through the town.

With a population of about 50,000 people, Fort portal is a very lively little town whose beauty is not just limited to the people but spreads beyond to the sights and wonders like the Amabeere ga Nyinamwiru caves stalagmites and stalactites that are believed to be the breasts of the Tooro Princess Nyinamwiru. You can go through the Tooro Botanical Gardens to look at the beautiful farming projects done by the people and get a bird watching tour while at it. After that, there is a chance to go look through the Karambi Royal Tombs which are a few kilometers south of the town and learn a few things about the Royals that lived in Fort Portals in the years past.

To cap it off, visit the Tooro Kingdom Royal Palace that sits on a hill watching over the town like a mother, it stands stoically representing generations of Royalty that are still going on  years. The current Omukama, Rukirabasaija Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV is also in the Guinness book of records for being the youngest ruling monarch who ascended to the throne in 1995 at the age of three when his Father the late Omukama Patrick David Mathew Kaboyo Olimi III died.

Fort Portal is a very relaxing town and after all the sightseeing, you can drop by hotels like Mountains of the Moon and Reinah for a necessary TLC with spas that will take away all the tension that your body has been holding in. You will also get to enjoy the delicious cuisines as you take in the beautiful scenery around you and on your way out of town, pass by the Kyaninga crater and save the best for last.

By Patrick Jaramogi

The short arrest and detention of Forum for Democratic Change Presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye has attracted an euphoria of reactions with the Go-Forward Independent Presidential candidate Amama Mbabazi warning of ‘serious repercussions” from the masses.

Mbabazi who has scores of rallies in Kampala as well described the arrest of Kizza Besigye as “very unfortunate” and “dangerous”. “It is wrong for the Police to arrest Kizza Besigye at this time. Such acts can provoke the masses and cause dire consequences,” said Mbabazi.

Besigye who earlier on Monday had a peaceful rally in Kamwokya a Kampala suburb along with Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago was heading to downtown but met resistance at Kitgum House along Jinja Road when police blocked him from accessing Mini Price and Kiseka markets through the Central Business District (CBD). The defiant Besigye jumped out of his car according to Police and begun walking prompting his arrest.

He was rushed to Central Police Station (CPS) where he was held briefly before transferred to Kira Road police. From Kira he was driven at break neck to his home in Kasangati where he held brief discussions with the police. He shortly left his home and headed to the city center where he is currently due to address a rally at Makerere University before heading for his main rally at Nakivubo stadium. Besigye was due to hold other rallies at Kagugube Arua Park, Container Village and at Nnabagereka primary school.

Besigyes’ lawyer and Kampala Lord Mayor aspirant described the arrest of Besigye as “injustice” to the FDC leader. “It is so sad that as we wind up our campaigns police is harassing Besigye while NRMs Museveni enjoys campaigns freely,” he said.

Police denies Besigye arrest

Meanwhile the police have denied arresting Besigye. Addressing the media in Kampala at the CPS, Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesman Fred Enanga said Besigye was not arrested.

Police Statement

This morning there was an incident at punjan junction, where the FDC presidential candidate Rtd Col Dr. Kiiza Besigye, with his supporters wanted to hold a heavy procession through the heart of Kampala city, a modality which was not agreed upon with the Police, after his campaigns in Kamwokya and Kisenyi.

The Police engaged with him and his campaign officials to alter the route plan, since it was not appropriate, as it would paralyze business and easily promote tension within the city and attract violence. The Police has since last week been appealing to all the presidential candidates to conduct their final schedules in an orderly and timely manner.

We have meanwhile conveyed him to his home in Kasangati, since he had failed to adhere to the security and traffic guidelines by the Police. He is at liberty to reorganize his campaign schedules and inform the Police accordingly.

The Police has the mandate to maintain public order and to create a favorable electoral environment and we urge all the presidential candidates and the general public to be mindful of the security measures in place.

CP Fred Enanga

Press and Public Relations Officer

Uganda Police

15th February 2016

By Patrick Jaramogi

Meanwhile the Electoral Commission chairperson Eng. Badru Kiggundu on Monday morning dispatched the first set of election materials ahead of Thursday s presidential and parliamentary elections. The first dispatch was headed to the farthest districts in Amudat, Nakapiripirit, Kotido and Moroto along with far and hard to reach eastern district of Bukwo.

Other districts where the voter materials have been dispatched are the far districts of West Nile. Addressing the press and the truck drivers Kiggundu said; “please ensure that you travel safely with these materials. You have been taught how and when to react when you find problems along the way. May the almighty Lord be with you.”

Kayihura warns on campaigns after February 16th

Similarly the Inspector General of Police Gen. Kale Kayihura took a swipe during the meeting and briefing of election observers on Monday to warn candidates from campaigning beyond February 16th (Tuesday). Officially the election campaigns wind up on Tuesday February 16. “I appeal to all candidates not to dare campaign after February 16 because we shall arrest you and charge you in accordance with the law,” warned Kayihura. He urged all Ugandans to remain calm and go and vote a candidate of their choice saying police would be deployed in all the 28, 210 polling stations to promote peace.

By Jako David Waluluka

Word reaching us from the corridors of Naguru based Wava Broadcasting Station is that, its senior management is in talks with the Kenyan prize winning Television Station Citizen which is eyeing to buy into the struggling station.

According to an insider source the top honcho of the station Prof.  Gordon Wavamunno and some of his trusted team members who include the MD Justine Nakuya have been engaged in talks with the Kenyan for the last two weeks in what might be the latest takeover of a Ugandan TV Station by a Kenyan Media outlet.

WBS’ has in the recent past seen new changes in which some programs like the Oldies have been scrapped off while staff members like Dennis Mawanda have been shown he exit.

The troubles of WBS begun in 2013 where over 60 workers who included journalists and media workers lost their jobs in what According to management, was a move  aimed at cost  cutting.

The same station has continued to lose many of its employees to new stations like Delta TV owned by Gaster Lule aka Ntake, with some alleging that they had not been paid their salaries for the past five months.

We do not know when this new partnership matures; WBS which has slumped in its local ranking will regain its top spot in the local industry with new stations opening up by the day.

By Patrick Jaramogi

The Truth be told. As we head for elections this calls for EXTRA vigilance among the citizens especially when voting their leaders. With just less than 48 hours into polling day for Uganda’s General Elections, all seems not well for Ntoroko County Member of Parliament NRM aspirant Gerald Rwemulikya Ibanda.

In simple terms, he has been barred from contesting in the elections by the Electoral Commission. He knew very well that he is a foreigner but duped the entire system, confused the electorate, beat the intelligence system and the entire vetting process and won in the NRM primaries, beating the incumbent and NRM leaning, Martin Bahinduka.

Though he had won the incumbent Martin Bahinduka in the NRM primaries, the EC cited section 4(1) (9) of the parliamentary Elections Act No. 17 of the 2005 (as amended) in regard to his citizenship. “He is not Ugandan, I confirm that he was lawfully disqualified,” Jotham Taremwa, the EC Spokesperson told the Invesrtigator this afternoon.

letter of cancellation of Ibanda’s candidature

The Electoral Commission in a letter dated February 15 2016 written to the Rwemulikya’s lawyers of Owen Murangira and Company Advocates and copied to the Ntoroko district Returning officer, sought to disqualify Ibanda from the race.

The letter reads thus; “This is to inform you that in its meeting held on 12/02/2015 under minute SP183/2016, the commission reversed the Returning Officer’s decision to nominate candidate Gerald Rwemulikya Ibanda for non compliance under section 4 (1) (9) of the Parliamentary Elections Act.”

The Investigator learnt that Rwemulikya is not a citizen of Uganda since he hails from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He still holds a Congolese National ID and all his documets are of Congolese origin. His disqualification now puts the incumbent in a comfart zone as he faces a very little known FDC chap Isingoma  Wilson, This revelation was also supported by the Local Council I Chairperson for Bweramule Sub County in Ntoroko district. The LC III Chairperson also hinted on that fact that Rwemulikya was not a citizen in a letter dated 22June 2016.

Documents seen by the Investigator include a Congolese ID number 12533003700 and a Certificate of Good Conduct issued by Congolese Embassy in Uganda which, reaffirms that Ibanda was born in Mitego, Congo 31 years ago.

Rwemulikya Ibanda Gerald campaign poster

Issued on November 15^th 2015 by the Officer in Charge of Registry Tshingambo Muyet, the letter reads in part; “I… certify that Mr. RWEMULIKYA IBANDA GERALD, of Congolese national, born in Mitego in December 12^th 1985, having resided in the Democratic Republic of Congo has exhibited good conduct, life and behavior.”

The Electoral Commission learnt that Rwemulikya was among the refuges enumerated from former Zaire to Rwebisengo Sub County in Bundibugyo on June 19^th 1993.  Rwemulikya was hammered further when he was proved that he had in his possession a national ID from the DRC dated 28^th August 2015.

By Patrick Jaramogi

Ugandans should expect more “Fire” in form of teargas as they go to polls on Thursday despite assurance of “peace” from scores of politicians and police. With the controversy surrounding the banning of phones in polling centres as announced by Electoral Commission chairperson Dr. Badru Kiggundu.

The ‘fire’ seems to be emanating from the remarks made by Forum for Democratic Change flag bearer Dr. Kizza Besigye and GO-Forward Independent presidential candidate at a parallel press conference held at the formers home in Kasangati and Kololo respectively.

Sounding tough, Besigye urged all Ugandans to go to polling stations with their phones. “Presence of mobile phones will be a great deterrent to those planning to rig the elections. Every Ugandan should carry and use their phone to guard their vote and promptly share occurrences at polling stations,” said Besigye.

He noted that phones are a fundamental tool in transparency and assessment of credibility of elections. “Mobile phones are helpful in ensuring the credibility, transparency of the election and results,” he said.

Besigye asked the Electoral Commission to give observers ‘unfettered access’, especially at the national tally centre.

He added; “Dr Kiggundu doesn’t have powers to ban use of phones at polling stations. Every Ugandan should carry and use their phone.”

Besigye observed that the demographics don’t tally with EC records. “We are supposed to be 38m and EC has more than 15m registered voters,” said Besigye.

Besigye lashed out at the EC officials telling them: “You don’t want to hear this but the law makes you our servants not masters as you want to be seen.”

He pointed out; “There’s nothing you should be afraid of, this is our country and you have to stand by it. Your time is up. The people of Uganda have made up their minds and they want change. Nothing will stand in their way.”

Besigye told the media that in two days, “we will have something new in this country, and something all Ugandans will be proud of.”  Besigye demanded that the EC avails information regarding the 20,000 voters who were deleted from National Voters Register.  He told the soldiers deployed on streets that Uganda is bigger than the commander-in-chief and urged them to respect the constitution”

FDC’s Kizza Besigye in Kamwokya

Similarly the Go Forward candidate Amama Mbabazi said ballot stuffing plans have been completed: “That is why doesn’t want people to monitor,” he said at his Kololo home earlier on Tuesday.

Mbabazi noted that in the last election, more people abstained from voting than those who voted for the winner, Museveni. ‘All this deployment of soldiers and shooting of supporters with live bullets and teargas is geared towards scaring away the voters.

“It is deliberate to instil fear among the masses. In 2011, 42% of registered voters never voted (5.6m votes). Museveni won with 5.4 million,” explained Mbabazi

Mbabazi wondered if Monday’s events occurred: “What will happen on Election Day?” he mused. Re-echoing Besigye’s remarks on barring supporters from polling stations Mbabazi said; “It is wrong to tell people to stay 100 meters away from polling sites. Please remain and guard your votes.”

By Ambrose Musasizi

The NRM Chairperson and Member of Parliament for Kyotera Constituency Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo has promised to set up Public Libraries in both Kalisizo and Kyotera towns once he is elected as member of Parliament.

He made the promise at a rally which held in Kalisizo Town Council on Tuesday. Kyeyune said he would uplift the education standards of the citizens which he said had slowed down hence retarding development. He advised students of Higher Institutions to make clear use of these Libraries for it will enable better education.

About the pupils’ performance in the final exams, Kasolo stressed that all Government schools will be entitled to monthly examinations since he is to import improved stationery that will enable easy access to printed exams.

He said he would put special emphasis on primary leaving examinations and promised to do the same to Secondary Schools.

Kasolo also promised to empower Women Co-operatives in Kalisizo Town Council so that women can improve their standards of living as they initiate small scale businesses such as poultry and piggery which they can easily manage.

He advised women not to run huge businesses that could collapse unless they have help from their husbands who are significantly empowered.

Kyeyune Kasolo said the issue of road construction especially Byansi road which people have always cried for due to its bad state would be handled as part of his manifesto to maintain worn out ones in Kalisizo Town Council.

He also promised to offer sitting chairs and tents to every parish since people find a great problem when organizing graduation parties and Introduction ceremonies. He said there will be a committee responsible for the chairs and tents to avoid misplacement and mishandling of such property.

“The elderly were promised a minimum payment of 30,000 per month as said before by the President. He said this will come as a supplement to what their sons and grandchildren will have offered to them with the little salary they earn since they will have been educated and will have good paying jobs.

 Kasolo urged the voters to send him back to Parliament for he was not narrating mere stories but these were statements which he was ready to go by when elected. In this way, he reminded the citizens about the two ambulances which he lobbied for Biikira and Kalisizo hospitals respectively.

He also reminded them of how he hustled to ensure that an ATM machine is brought to Kalisizo so that people get easy access to their money.

By Ricardo John Munyegera

After dissecting the youth and begging them to vote wisely recently, I as well call upon the elites in this country to follow the same. The main problem here is based on the fact the educated class always complains but never takes precise actions.

They easily articulate issues in the social, political and economic aspects. These end up in good topics that would avail our society a new hope for the future. Digging deep in history of elections in Uganda, the number of registered voters tends to be high but those who actually participate in the exercise of voting are dwindling.

In 2011, over 5.3 million registered voters never participated in the polls. If you analyze this in details, you can realize that, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni got 5,428,369 votes making a 68.39%; Dr. Kizza Kifefe Besigye had 2,064,963 votes with a 26.01%. The rest others (Hon. Norbert Mao, Mr. Olara Otunnu, Mrs. Beti Olive Namisango Kamya, Dr. Abed Bwanika, Hon. Jaberi Bidandi Ssali and Mr. Samuel Walter Mukaaku Lubega), had just a few votes less than 500,000! (7.9%) In fact Mr. Olara Otunnu in the 2011 elections failed to vote himself and instead stayed in his house citing massive rigging of his votes yet his own vote was missing! Those are the Ugandan elites we have today and they have great political rhetoric over the wrongs of the government.

One of my friends recently told me that, they’re political orators in their courtyard not interested in changing any Ugandan not even their political parties. Not only him but Hon. Norbert Mao, this time won’t be going to the polls as he never registered as a Ugandan. This therefore shows you that, those people who never participated had a significant number most especially the elites.

These elites who really know what to do but they don’t participate in general elections. They end up being governed by school drop-outs yet they still complain of the misguided politics in the country, the poor infrastructures and others. Many of them have left the country for greener pastures elsewhere in especially democratic countries leaving their own country suffering. They don’t walk the talk but complain a lot over the poor infrastructures, the decaying health sector, the limping education system and many other sectors in Uganda.

It’s therefore disappointing to find the many elites complaining of bad leadership, poor governance and undemocratic or hybrid democracies, as for them, they’re informed already. This vice is more-less amongst African elites; but the moment these countries drop into chaos and ‘democradura or dictablanda’ tendencies, they jump on the boat of blaming those who elect bad leaders or the weak government and its failures.

The other dilemma I have for long time observed with Ugandan elites is that, they don’t have time. At most, they claim that, lining in the morning or mid-day so as they cast their votes is that time consuming. Away from that, there’s also this known complaint, that elections are always held on a working day therefore, they have to go for work instead of voting their leaders. It’s therefore a mixture of arguments they front especially those to address their personal gains and goals outside those that affect the country.

The change of heart by Uganda’s elites so as they go for the polls this time would change definitely the political and economic transformation. This can help to shape the political maturity in the country and indeed avert the fear factor which has swallowed up many Ugandans. The elites in fact have forgotten that they’re the pillars to shape the politics of this country. Prof. Francis Fukuyama once noted that, ‘a group of elites in England, led by John Stuart Mill, Edwin Chadwick, and an organization of businessmen called the administrative reform association, also promoted meritocratic civil service recruitment and an examination system.’ The intellectual genesis of elites groups can as well base on the utilitarian ideas of Jeremy Bentham and James Mill; John Stuart Mill’s father. Many intellectuals in Makerere, Kyambogo and other universities have all been so reluctant to either join the government or the opposition politics.

As the elites create that disconnect, the social media professors and would be intellectuals have taken over. One mutual friend of mine on social media (face book) refers to them as ‘hintelekikyozi’. They remain in hiding and never have time to go and vote just like the elites. Just like you post and share ideas on social media platforms, kindly go and vote wisely as well.

With a dormant elite class, never expect a change or improvements in the political, social and economic fortunes of a highly indebted poor country like ours. For that matter therefore, the Baganda people always say; “temutuswazza, temutukooya mugende mu londe”. Participate in politics and come the 18th February 2016, next week, go and vote your leaders and indeed those of your choice. Always vote for peace because Uganda is your and my country. You have all the time to do so; therefore time cannot be an excuse unless you want foreigners to do it for you. Vote for peace; make your choice wisely in the forthcoming elections.

By Patrick Jaramogi

Former Ugandan Spy Chief cum vibrant politician David Pulkol is on the spot, for not very good news but for failing to fend for one of his own child. The Investigator has learnt from the mother of Pulkol’s daughter a one Nuru Chepkeboi Kassim, that Pulkol fathered the girl; Zeitun Pulkol now aged 12 years. Pulkol is the former Director External Security Organisation (ESO).

Speaking to the Investigator from her base in Saudi Arabia, Nuru said she had decided to “let the cat out of the bag” because efforts to get support for her daughter from Pulkol for Zeitun Pulkol had proved futile.

How long have you known Mr. David Pulkol? “I have known him for a very long time.” Where did you meet him? “I met him in Kampala. He has been my boyfriend for rather along time,” said Nuru Chepkeboi a Kenyan.

Nuru aged 38 years and does salon business in Saudi Arabia where she has been for the last two years has three children, with one Zeitun Pulkol belonging to politician now linked to The Democratic Alliance (TDA)

“I have three 3 kids but Zeitun is the only Pulkol’s daughter. We met at Kampala. I am working in a salon and am 38yrs. He was my boyfriend,” she communicated to the Investigator.

When pressed and pinned further to produce evidence, Nuru responded; “He (Pulkol) can’t reject because I have his baby and I am even ready for DNA test if he asks for it. The girl is 12yrs old now.” What other evidence do you have? ‘I have been calling him but he keeps changing numbers. I got his latest number two weeks ago (number withheld) and called him. He picked and only said thank you. When I called him again he declined to pick.”

When the Investigator called the Airtel number given by Nuru, the receiver identified himself as David Pulkol.  But Nuru, who seems rejected and hurt was not about to end her evidence. She added further: “The other evidence I have is that in 2002 I worked as a house-help for Pulkol. His wife is Sarah knows me and the kids I used to take care off are Young, Dellah, Tazyy, Emmanuel and Grace.” She said she had even decided to post the girls photos on Face Book so as to attract attention. “I need someone to tell Mr. Pulkol that I need support for his daughter,” she said. She said she had decided to go that far because she lacked help.

David Pulkol, daughter and Nuru Chepkeboi Kassim

Pulkol reacts

Like we always do, we don’t take any allegation lightly. We picked our phone and decided to call David Pulkol on Tuesday February 16th 2016 at 2.10pm. He indeed picked and said; “David Pulkol speaking.” Do you have any daughter called Zeitun Pulkol? “No what are you talking about?” Some lady called Nuru claims you fathered a child with her but you are not supporting her. “That is not true. Some of us have made our names and we can’t associate ourselves with such.” He added: “But I am in a meeting let me call you after one hour,” he said and hang-up. Being a busy day with Presidential candidates in their last campaigns, NRMs Museveni in Mukono and Kololo, Besigye in Nakawa and Go Forward Independent Amama Mbabazi (whom Pulkol supports)  in Wakiso district, we gave him two hours to call back. He didnt. After two hours, we did call him back, but his cellphone was swicthed off.

Who is David Pulkol 

David Pulkol, is a Matheniko from the Matheniko clan in Moroto in Karamoja.

Pulkol served as Deputy Minister for Water and Minerals in 1987, just a year after NRM captured power. Pulkol now aged 54, also served as the State Minister for Education, and the Minister in charge of Karamoja Affairs, between 1994 and 1995.

Before joining ESO in 1996, Pulkol tried a stint at Parliament for the Matheniko county seat in 1991 and was re-elected in 1996. But he shortly served and resigned after President Museveni appointed him director External Security Organization where he served for two years.

In 2001 he returned back to contest for MP seat after two years in exile, but lost prompting another appointment to head ESO between 2001-2003. He now on top of engaging in politics is also the head of the African Leadership Institute.

By Patrick Jaramogi

The Ugandans residing in UK under the Uganda Diaspora P10 umbrella has described the arrest and blockade of FDC Kizza Besigye on Monday as “uncalled for” and “threatening”.

In a statement issued to the Investigator from their London base, the spokesman Omulangira Dickson Wasajja said; ‘The Uganda Diaspora P10 has learned with utter shock and horror at the cruel arrest of the FDC Presidential Candidate, Col (Rtd).

Dr. Kizza Besigye as he tried to make his way to address his supporters at various places in Kampala today February 15, 2016. While the Police maintain that there should not be any campaigns in the Central Business Districts of the Capital, Kampala, it was prudent for the Police to clearly distinguish between “passing through” and “campaigning”.

They however noted with gratitude that Kizza Besigye was immediately released and allowed to proceed with his campaigns though later evening blockade again led to the death of one FDC supporter in Wandegeya.

“It is to our clear understanding that Dr Besigye had planned to “pass through” the City, while driving in his vehicle, to go to address his supporters at Nakivubo Stadium and at Makerere University. The Police could have chosen to escort him, if they feared that his popularity would distract business,” said Wasajja in a statement. Prince Dickson Wasajja is the Chairman P10 in the UK and Secretary for Mobilisation and Publicity FDC UK and Ireland Chapter

He described the show of force by the Police as unwarranted, brutal, cruel and scary to the peace loving Ugandans. “These elections should remain peaceful and orderly while the Police should be able to guide Candidates amicably and exhibit impartiality. Definitely, there is a need for a fair application of the law,” he noted.

He observed that clearly, the conduct of the Police has demonstrated that it is not impartial and partisan in support of the incumbent. “We condemn the Police for its brutality, lack of impartiality, obstructing and blocking Dr Kiiza Besigye from accessing his supporters and restricting his fundamental rights, as a Citizen, and as a Presidential Candidate. Understandably, the despotic regime has created excuses to be able to test its weapons of suppression on its citizenry, and we are convinced that this is in its broader interest to test the will and patience of the population,”

The statement indicated that the Uganda Diaspora P10, decries the lack of fairness and freedom in this elections. “It has deprived Presidential candidates a chance to compete favorably with the incumbent who is using all state machineries to its advantage particularly the police, the military, the Illegal Crime Preventers, and all the other auxiliary forces who are intimidating, abusing, and violating the inherent human rights of Ugandans.”

The Ugandans in Diaspora decried the 2016 elections as unfortunately since it has been reduced to Dr Kiiza Besigye VS the State of Uganda, with its full machination. They noted that however, despite the current state of political affairs, they are convinced that at the end of it all, people’s power shall prevail. “No doubt we are at a historic moment in our lives where the people of Uganda have decided to liberate themselves from 30 years of bondage and dictatorship characterized by threats of war, bribery, corruption and sectarianism. We urge all Ugandans to remain steady, peaceful, vigilant, optimistic and resolute, that the only guaranteed way out of the NRM’s bondage and weakened grip of the tyrant, is by the ballot.” Wasajja said that on February 18, 2016 (Thursday), Ugandans should all conspire to empty out the political fortune of the regime, so as to re-institute a people’s government, for the people and by the people.

Commenting on the Sejusa dentention, Wasajja said that he is being subjected this not due to prosecution, but persecution.

“Incidents like those ones energise us that we are fighting for a just cause. Museveni manipulated young men like Sejusa and took them to the bush. He made hollow promises to them and he now keeps them in the army where they are prisoners of conscience because he fears competition. That is totally unacceptable,” he said.

By Patrick Jaramogi

The Inspector General of Police Gen. Kale Kayihura is on a tight corner regarding his warning against carrying phones and recording gadgets to polling stations. While addressing the Election observers at Hotel Africana last week, Kayihura warned that nobody would be allowed with phones at polling centres.

His remarks re-echoed that of the electoral commission boss Eng. Badru Kiggundu who similarly warned of dire consequences against anybody nabbed with a phone at the polling stations. But the duo may now have to swallow their words following reactions from the three top presidential contenders including NRM flag bearer and incumbent Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

The top three contenders all issued stern warnings against guarding their votes. At an earlier press briefings FDC flag bearer Dr. Kizza Besigye and Go-Forward Independent candidate John Patrick Amama Mbabazi both urged all Ugandans to carry their phones and remain at the polling stations to guard their votes. At a later rally as President Museveni wound up his rally at Independence Ground in Kololo, he had similar remarks when he urged his supporters to guard their votes. Museveni noted that he didn’t see any problem with his supporters (voters) remaining at the polling station to guard votes so long as they were peaceful. He said that most districts had already received voting materials apart from Kampala where the materials will be dispatched starting at 5am on voting day (Thursday February 18)

Electoral commission responds

The people with the authority over elections who issued the ban, are the same who withdrew it and we take this opportunity to tell Ugandans that they are free to carry their phones to the polling stations and remain there until vote counting so long as they are calm. The EC spokesman Joseph Taremwa earlier today said; “Ugandans (voters) are free to carry their phones to the polling stations. They are also free to take pictures like of people lining up but as long as you have entered the ring, no photos will be tolerated,” he said. Taremwa also said voters were free to remain at the polling station but at least 100 meters from the voting spot. “We were against people remaining near the polling station because some polling stations are near bars and people may turn rowdy. But if they can remain calm and peaceful, we have no problem,” he said. Taremwa also rubbished social media mills making rounds that the EC intends to use unique pens that will erase the ticked mark or thumb mark. “Voters who have doubt in our pens are free to carry their pens for use at the polling stations,” said Taremwa.

The Forum for Democratic Change flag bearer Dr. Kizza Besigye on Tuesday said at his Kasangati home: “Presence of mobile phones will be a great deterrent to those planning to rig the elections. Every Ugandan should carry and use their phone to guard their vote and promptly share occurrences at polling stations,” said Besigye.

He noted that phones are a fundamental tool in transparency and assessment of credibility of elections. “Mobile phones are helpful in ensuring the credibility, transparency of the election and results,” he said.

Go-Forward candidate Amama Mbabazi said: “It is wrong to tell people to stay 100 meters away from polling sites. Please remain and guard your votes. Ballot stuffing plans have been completed: “That is why doesn’t want people to monitor.”

DOS AND DONTS ON POLLING DAY

• Voting starts at 7am and ends at 4pm
• Nobody will be allowed on the voting queue after 4pm
• Those already in the queue after 4pm will be allowed to vote
• A police constable will stand behind the last person on the queue when it clocks 4pm
• A voter will need either a National ID or Voter Identification for verification at the polling station
• Those without the two can still vote as long as they are on the voters register
• The law says people can only remain 20 meters from the polling station
• Voting can only commence once at least 5 registered voters have reached the polling station and verified the polling materials
• All contesting candidates are allowed only two agents per polling station
• The law bars anybody carrying a gun within the polling station
• Only presiding officers are allowed to announce the results after the votes have been counted
• All candidate agents are supposed to sign the Results Declaration forms after the vote counting
• Voters and agents are supposed to tally the number of voters who have voted and match with the counted votes at the end of the voting exercise.

By Richard Olwenyi                                                                      

The Uganda Peoples Defense Forces (UPDF) have today morning held a Prayer Service right in front of their Ministry of Defense headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala to pray for incumbent President Museveni’s ‘peaceful victory’ in the tomorrow-scheduled General elections.

The Investigator can authoritatively report that though its obliged not to participate in partisan politics, UPDF defied, made a U-turn and campaigned for their Commander in Chief, President Museveni, asking God to retain him in power after February 18 , when Uganda go to polls to elect another leader.

The Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) Gen. Katumba Wamala said during the service: “Vote wisely, don’t just waste our vote, there was a time when people around such campaign period would ask, ‘Okateriire nkahe,’ a Runyankole dialect meaning “where did you put your vote”.

“I assure you Uganda is going to continue with same leadership and no one should scare you, just pray for our man,” said the CDF. Gen. Katumba Wamala officiated in the prayer service that did not have any communally known Pastor or Priest but was led by fellow men in uniform. He said the country is not going to experience any political change neither is there going to be post-election violence.

The opposition politicians under their campaign of defiance have in the previous months been mobilizing their supporters to be vigilant and resist any form of intimidation from security agencies as they protect their vote to uproot President Museveni from power. Something the army commander cannot believe it can happen in Uganda.

The prayer service was also attended by the Internal Affairs Minister Rose Akol who, said police had already deployed in major government installations and public places in response to the rumored violence. “My brothers and sister, there is no need to be worried, we have deployed heavily and you can count on us for your security,” she said.

By the time she made the statement, there was no excuse for deployment, a few uniformed men were visible on the streets of Kampala but waited at barracks just waiting for the slightest excuse to execute the mission.

When Presidential Candidate Dr. Kiiza Besigye supporters protested the blocking of their candidate to access campaign stations, the security men poured on the streets to crash the rioters, leaving one supporter dead and dozens injured. The prayer service was attended by the UPDF family composed of serving UPDF officers, their spouses, children, orphans and widows of the fallen soldiers.

By Ambrose Musasizi

As Uganda’s 2016 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections draws nearer, the Presiding Officers and Polling Assistants who are expected to conduct the exercise recently demanded for an increment in their allowances after they were told that they will be paid Shs 40,000 and shs 20,000 per day respectively.

The Polling Officials from around Rakai, who were so bitter, were being given the final touches and instructions at their respective sub county headquarters on how the exercise was to be conducted in the coming elections.

David Ntambaazi of Kamukalo Parish in Byakabanda Sub County advised his sub county Registrar Fred Bakubanja to recruit some other person for he was not ready to work for such little money.

He was also surprised that at their final training they were not refunded their transport and Lunch allowances as if they were being employed by a charitable organisation. “I can’t allow these people to make a fool of me. They want to pay me just 20k yet Iam going to conduct an exercise that will allow MPs and other politicians be paid millions of money!”

Muddu Phillip and other colleagues who are to work in Kyotera Town Council said that they will come for work but this is not what they really expected. They added that they expect violence from the masses that will have come to vote and yet the Polling Officials could be the ones to suffer the consequences of such actions.

Muhinda Alexander, the Ddwaniro Sub County Registrar also admitted that the Polling Officials complained about the allowances as they pressurized them to take this message back to their bosses such that an increment is made hence easing the election exercise.

Muhinda also stressed that some officials reside in distant areas compared to the station of work thereby almost using all the allowance for transport costs.

Bakubanja said they were to make replacements in the vacancies that had remained vacant and they expect the exercise to move on smoothly though they will find a few difficulties.

He also stressed that the Electoral Commission would have been considerate and increase these people’s allowances simply because these elections are expected to be a bit technical compared to the previous ones as there will be use of the Biometric Voter Verification Machine.

“Most of the people who applied for this exercise had very high expectations since they have seen exercises before like that of Mass Enrolment where the employees were paid to their expectations and in this exercise they were also promised to use Biometric machines which gave them hope of a reasonable payment,” said the confused Bakubanja.

Lubega Emmanuel a Registrar of Kyotera Town Council explained that he had the trickiest area and expected more violence compared to other areas of Rakai district.

He suggested that if at all these officials were paid adequately; they would mind and handle the exercise efficiently than when they are given this little money.

However, when we contacted the District Registrar Baguma Daniel on phone explained that all these officials knew about the money they were to receive before they applied and they had a chance of withdrawing their applications such that other people who could work for this money would be recruited. He also added that this payment was not only in Rakai but the whole country and they had nothing to do about it.

By Jako David Waluluka

The Investigator can exclusively reveal that singer Jackie Chandiru is currently being closely monitored by family and friends after she allegedly attempted to commit suicide a few days ago, though against God’s will.

According to an insider source, Jackie has in the recent past been dogged with several problems that emanate from her now rocky marriage to her estranged Mzungu husband Holland national Nal Viliet.

It is said that after Jackie found out that Nal had been hitched to another babe, a Sudanese born model Adut Mawien, she went into sombre moods that reportedly intensified to drug use and eventually… abuse, hence ending up hating herself as well as living on.

Jackie had wedded Nal on 10th April 2013 at the Serena Hotel in Kampala, which function was preceded by her introduction that was held atop a hangout in Bugolobi. Shortly after, we, in these line predicted what Jackie is currently going through. And below, we reproduce the excerpt;

The Sudanese girl Viliet married

In separate interviews with two of his former girls and a friend, we unearthed that if their confessions and attributions are to go with; Nal is the biggest player thinkable of. He travels to Africa about three times a week.

“He’s married in almost all African countries where he has business contacts, these include Burkina Faso, Ghana, Sudan, Morocco, Liberia, and Uganda, among others,” said Susan (not real name), one of his ‘victims.’ The African girls think of him as a billionaire, and that’s how even Chandiru fell in the mix.

Chandiru’s is a story where, she went to perform in Sudan and landed a friend called Maria (the Nal’s Sudan company secretary). Maria had introduced Jackie to Nal and later went behind her back to sleep with him. They both requested for a visa to the Netherlands on invitation of Nal and Jackie was rejected but Maria got hers.

When Maria got to Holland, she was taken around Nal´s bungalow which he inherited from the father. That’s when Maria realized it was her mistake to give Jackie Chandiru to this man. “She proceeded to sleep with him for the whole of that holiday,” revealed Carol (not real name), another victim of Nol.

Meanwhile, Jackie was denied the Holland visa because she presented her papers showing she is married to Nal yet according to Holland system, Nal was long married to someone else. The immigration office declared her marriage as bogus.

Carol and Susan tell us that every girl Nal marries is given a tattoo code on her back. The tattoo represents the wedding year and girls’ and Nal´s years of birth. In this case Jackie Chandiru´s code is 155284. “So far more than 28 girls have that code tattoo. The Dude talks huge amounts of cash, buys gifts and arranges fake marriages. He is also a bisexual,” narrates Susan.

It is said that Nal NEVER EVER allows a girl to live with him or get officially registered at his private home address. Since Jackie’s wedding they met only three times. They also did not have any honeymoon. Nal is also feared to harbour a strange infectious disease.

After the hook up, Jackie pushed Nal for marriage. She wanted a wedding. But this is just Nal’s hobby… hooking and marrying young girls allover Africa. He also had Adut Mawien the 22 year old Sudanese girl he married two years ago. Nal is now 63 and Jackie, 31.

“Dude is bi sexual and together with his brother called Sjaak who is also gay, they terrorize the backs and fronts of the girls to their access,” Carol reveals. She adds that Nal applies a drug called GHB in the drinks of unwilling girls and still rides them from the back, then shares with his friends, a gang bang.

Poor girl Chandiru

Jackie Chandiru is believed to be one of the victims of the GHB results. “The night she wore a black sleazy dress and had champagne in Nal´s house, she had been in Deutschland on a performance and crossed over to Holland. That night she was drugged and three men are feared to have tortured her. I have pictures to this effect,” Susan narrated.

The house in holland where Van stays and the cars in basement he uses to seduce girls

According to Google sear results, GHB is a rape drug. One is literally dead as the ‘world’ enjoys their goodies. “You [Investigator] have to help and stop this gay man from killing unsuspecting gold diggers,” pleaded Carol.

Back home, the still unsuspecting Jackie is still looking for a house worth USD1m which Nal fooled him into searching for purchase. “Mukazi wattu Jackie guy yamulimba mbu look for a house worth $1M I buy it for you, asiiba anonya but every time she finds one, Dude makes excuses. They sleep in Serena wherever the guy flies to Uganda, all he did was to buy her Michael Kors bags, offered the source.

The Nal wrap-up

According to Susan, he has a huge packing garage under his late father´s house… “But remember he works for a car dealer millionaire Wim. So he arranges such cars on days that girls like Jackie visit and he tells them, ‘Baby this can be your ride if you agree on sex.’”

The number plates, adds Carol, clearly shows the cars are for sale but girls like Jackie can’t know this hence give in their a***s. “These are old men with sick fantancies. Like; they ask women to pee or pupu on them. This information is not so private here in Holland coz they buy audience. They like it when people watch this going on as a woman susu and or make a long call. This is their fantasy and that’s why they are always in a group of men.”

In conclusion, Carol sums with a message to Chandiru thus; “Nal is nearly 63 naye bakyamukozesa. Sente wezili entonotono but tell Jackie the two conflicting planes with the Sudanese government belong to Wim the Dutch millionaire and not Nol. Nol is just employed by what used to be his father´s company but gets a descent salary anyway.”

Visa and Permanent Relocation Bombshell;

It should be noted that after her wedding, Jackie had vowed to take a local musical breather as she concentrated on raising a family with Nal, However, her efforts to stay with the guy in Holland never materialized as we mentioned earlier, and it is said that ever since then she has been living in denial and thus her resorting to booze and drugs for solace.

Who is Jackie Chandiru?

Jackie Chandiru a.k.a Jackie is one of Uganda’s leading female R’n’B artists and vocalists. Jackie kicked off her musical career in 2004 after she emerged as one of the winners for the Coca Cola Pop stars. This led to formation of the Blu 3 which became one of the leading girl groups in Africa.

In 2010 Blu 3 went on leave thus leading to the girls working on solo projects. In mid-2010, Jackie released her first single Agassi in both Lugbara (her native language) and English. This song has earned recognition as a solo artist and has earned her an award, Best r’n’b single in the just ended Diva awards.

She has continued to release songs like Goin’ On ft Jose Chameleone, Gwoyagala ft Rabadaba, Overdose, for all time ft Sami from Eritrea, Bakusigula, Agassi, Stand Together ft Paul Mutebi of Limit X, Baazi Yo, Wind it Up ft Navio and Fidempa and so much more. She has worked with producers like Goodenuff Records, Swangz Ave, Paddy Man from Dream studios, Hanz from Hanz Production and Charlie King.

Jackie is amongst few Ugandan musicians to have broken out of the local music scene and made an impact on the African music scene. Their music can be heard on Radio across Africa and their trendy high budget videos have enjoyed extensive airplay on major African networks MTV Base, Channel O and East African Television.

Drunken Slur Stupor Slurred Jackie Speaks Out;

When this writer contacted the singer on Thursday afternoon, she incoherently confirmed that she was actually sick and that she was still in bed at the the moment contemplating on whether to go shopping.

When she was further pressed before she hang up the line , she changed her statement saying that ’ I have been sick and I am still thinking about counseling sessions, but I have to clear my fridge and then go for elections before I embark on an 8hr flight back’.

A little while later she sent an SMS saying that ‘’Sorry my dear, am low on credit now but will call as soon as I step out of home.’’

Friend Lillian Mbabazi and Family Step in;

The same source we spoke to earlier then told us that Jackie’s friend Lillian Mbabazi, has in the recent days been by her side and that she is trying to help her go through this sad situation and that she has been encouraging and escorting her to the counselling session when ever, they manage to talk her into doing so with the help of her family most especially her youngest sister.

But surely with a talent so promising like Jackie’s the last thing that anyone who is into the Ugandan music industry wants is to hear she has decided to destroy her on career and livelihood.

By Robert Ndawula

Residents of Lukaya are smiling following a donation of medical supplies by Crane Bank to Tender Hands Nursing Home in Lukaya, Masaka district.

Tender Hands Nursing Home is a registered Non-Governmental Health Project and offers nursing services to all the People who have illness in Lukaya Town Council and its neighbouring villages. It was initiated in June 2008, and offers an in-Patient and out-Patient Clinic.

Mrs. Juliet Nakidde, the director of the nursing home said, “We are always looking to extend medical and clinical facilities in the Masaka region; especially towards pregnant women.”

This philanthropic venture is the latest in Crane Bank’s various corporate social responsibilities endeavours, that includes Free Eye Screening and treatment for everyone young or old, blood donation campaigns, Kampala City Festival among other activities.

As the largest indigenous commercial bank in the country, Crane Bank understands its responsibility towards the society and is hence keen on development and progress of the society. It has been involved in various activities across the years aimed at the betterment of the people and the community.

Crane Bank also exercises its corporate responsibility beyond its core business. More than 10,000 people benefit from the different initiatives as part of its commitment to society.

One of the banks segment, the “Agriculture Financing, ” and the bank’s education program, has reached over 500 schools countrywide. Over 5,000 people have benefited from the bank’s financial literacy programs. Out of Uganda’s 112 districts, Crane Bank has a direct outreach in 70 districts through 23 upcountry branches. They range from microfinance to impact investments and aim to promote entrepreneurship, improve people’s local environment and help people in emergency situations.

Crane Bank opened its doors for business on August 21, 1995 and weathered the banking crisis of 1990’s to become the largest indigenous bank in country today. The bank now boosts of 46 branches across the country.

Crane Bank provides a full range of financial products and services, each tailored to meet the individual needs of its customers, through its nationwide branches and ATMs spread across Uganda and a subsidiary, Crane Bank in Rwanda.

Crane Bank has won several awards including the prestigious “The Best Bank Uganda” of Euro money and “Banker of the Year” award from The Banker Magazine, publication of the Financial Times for the 9th time in 10 years. Crane Bank has won the “Deutsch Bank USD STP Award” four times in a row.

The Ruparelia Group has been named the best tourism investor at the first-ever Ekkula Tourism Awards. The Ekkula Tourism Awards recognized and awarded people that selflessly put Uganda’s tourism to better heights.

The conglomerate, which is headed by Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, has business interests in banking, insurance, hospitality, conventions and hospitality, entertainment, education, real estate and floriculture. These establishments have made Sudhir one of the most adored entrepreneurs in Uganda.

However the Ekkula Tourism Award comes as recognition for investments that directly went into supporting the country’s flourishing tourism industry. The Ruparelia Group owns a number of hotels, resorts and entertainment centres.

The Ekkula Awards comes in recognition for the Group’s activities in the tourism sector, that is the hospitality and accommodation subsidiaries which include Speke Hotel, Speke Resort (named Best Luxury Hotel), Tourist Hotel, Dolphin Suites, Kabira Country Club and Forest Cottages.

The hotels, resorts and suites under the Ruparelia Group are strategically located to cater to the interests of the diversified field of tourists.

The 5-star Speke Resort Munyonyo is conveniently located 12 km from Uganda’s capital Kampala. The hotel offers the ultimate in luxury accommodation, leisure facilities, the finest conference and business meeting location in East Africa.

Speke Resort & Conference Centre Munyonyo offers 10 state-of-the-art conference rooms including a 1,000-seat ballroom and 9 multi-functional meeting rooms that accommodate groups of 10-300 people.

At this stage, the tourism industry in Uganda will rely heavily on continued investment by the Ruparelia Group to advance and maintain international standards.

In his capacity as Chief Guest, The Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga commended the investors of the tourism sector for their continued role in creating jobs. He appealed to stakeholders in the sector to promote domestic tourism.

By Patrick Jaramogi

NRM Presidential candidate and incumbent Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has clarified that he is the one who issued orders to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) via security measures, to temporarily put off the social media platforms to avoid widespread unrest from the opposition propagandists.

The shutdown affected Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp and Mobile Money users. Internet users were not able to load money, pay for utilities such as water bills, Umeme, DSTV and withdraw and deposit money until. International Election observer were literally also affected by the shut down since they couldn’t send live reports to their supervisors regarding the elections taking place.

Authentic sources from UCC and security revealed to Investigator that much as they hadn’t deemed it necessary to close down the networks, Candidate Dr. Besigye’s ‘defiance campaign’ ignited the action. “He openly told people he would communicate to them a way forward. This is because he knew he would lose and the second option was to incite violence through these platforms as has been the case always,” said the UCC source on anonymous condition.

While addressing the media shortly after casting his vote at Kaaro polling station in Kiruhura district at 3.20pm, Museveni noted that the security was tightened and on standby to guard against possible riots and uprising among the citizens. “I want to assure all Ugandans that nobody will be allowed to cause mayhem. The police and the army are on standby to contain the situation. Anybody who tries will be arrested and locked up. I advised that the social media be shut down to avoid escalated unrest.”

There were reports of widespread riots in Makindye where a voter was nabbed with pre-ticked ballot papers for presidential candidates. The suspect survived being lynched and was rushed to Katwe police station. Also in Kisenyi, a rowdy youth tried to antagonise the polling exercise by splashing a bottle containing red pepper, forcing voters to scamper for their dear lives, thinking it was a bomb. He was arrested by a senior UPDF officer and rushed to Old Kampala Police Station.

Elsewhere, there were scuffles in Kawempe and Kisozi in Buddo Kyengera where angry and tired voters blocked the road and damaged scores of voting materials after the electoral commission delayed to start the voting process. The angry voters said they had reported at the polling stations as early as 6am but materials had not reached some centres as at 2pm.

This prompted the EC chief Badru Kiggundu to use the powers and authority entrusted to him under The Electoral Commissions Act (Cap140) to extend the voting hours in affected areas of Kampala and Wakiso for two more hours (from 4pm-7pm) to allow compensate for the delay.

“I thank all citizens and voters for being calm and patient with us. I apologise for the delay of the voter materials. I will use my powers entrusted to me to extend the voting time until 7pm in only affected areas where voter materials arrived late,” said Kiggundu. The tallying of the results will continue in Namboole stadium where final results are expected to be announced within 48 hours. EC Badru Kiggundu said he would announce the winner of the2016 presidential election latest by Saturday 5pm.

By Patrick Jaramogi

Voters in Mbuya Zone Nakawa division witnessed free drama when the Commander of the Defence Force Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala had a bitter exchange with one of the lady voters whose identity we are yet to establish.

The lady was concerned that the close to 10 soldiers dressed in army fatigue were lined up and set to vote. The soldiers are attached to Mbuya Army headquarters. “Gen. Katumba Wamala, why should soldiers come to vote dressed in army uniforms? You know where we came from; people are still scared to see army men. This can intimidate them,” said the lady.

Katumba who looked visibly furious responded: “when did you put a law in Uganda barring soldiers from voting? Count them, how many are they? What is worrying you? Have you seen any of them forcing his way to vote? They are standing in the line.”

Not done he added: “Go to parliament and change the law to stop soldiers from voting. Are you saying soldiers are animals and should not vote? These people have sacrificed, they sleep out in the cold guarding you and you treat them like that. The right you have to vote is the same right soldiers have.”

Meanwhile, we observed a massive turn-up even amidst delayed arrival of election materials and the shutdown of social media and Patrick Jaramogi continues with the wrap-up…;

Uganda will go down in history for this years’ voter turn up. As the 15.3 million decide their leaders, there have been reports of massive voter turn up across the entire country. Reports from Kabale, Soroti, Mbarara, Mbale, Jinja, Greater Masaka, Hoima, Masindi, Arua, Nebbi and Koboko show massive voter turn up with some areas voters reporting at their respective polling stations by as early as 6am.

Voter materials arrive late

The Electoral Commission is on the spot for delivering voter materials “late”. Even in Kampala, voter materials arrived as late as 8-9am. In some polling stations like in Gogonya in Nsambya and one zone in Mbuya 1 at Kitawulizi zone 6, voting had not started by 11am. A one Sam Ojyemi told the Investigator that the polling assistants didn’t know how to operate the Bio metric machines prompting them to go manual.

Rain disrupts voting in Gulu

Meanwhile in Gulu much as the voters turned up as early as 6am, heavy rain disrupted the process eventually delaying the exercise coupled with the late arrival of voter materials.

Suspected pre-ticked ballot in Pece Division in Gulu

In Gulu tension continues to be high following reports of suspected pre-ticked ballot papers in the house of George Marino Obola, the former Ugandan ambassador to Canada. Residents and police were barred from accessing the premises of the later ambassador raising even more speculation

Kampala Calm

A mini survey conducted Nakawa, Makindye, Kawempe, Rubaga and Makindye division indicated a massive turn up but with calm and peaceful elections. Apart from the late arrival of election materials and “confused” electoral polling agents and officers (who didn’t guide the voters where to vote from when lining up), the exercise so far seems good. Most voters abided by the regulations preferring not to dress up in party colors and campaign during while within the precepts of the polling area.

UCC shuts down social media

The Uganda Communications Commission has decided to shut down the social media platforms literally blocking facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp users. Also affected are, mobile money uses that can’t send or withdraw money due to the shutdown.

UCC boss Eng. Godfrey Mutabazi couldn’t be reached for comment as he switched off his phone but a communication from UCC says the forced shut down was due to security reasons. Social media activists have however lashed out at UCC saying the action deprives Uganda of access to information and would challenge UCC in courts of law.

By Ricardo Munyegera John

With many Ugandan ministers thrown out of Parliament and indeed the long serving members of parliament both in the opposition and the NRMO ones, expect excitement and no serious business in the 10^th parliament.

Yes we can agree that it’s not that usual for the so-called ministers to lose elections but Uganda has changed. These ministers have been enjoying all the life at the expense of the masses.

Close to 19 ministers have lost and a case in Eastern Uganda, not even one survived the electorate’s dagger on 18^th February 2016. A minister of education for example, fails to visit even a school and she’s not eager even to discuss the teachers’ grievances but at the end of the road, she cries out loud to the public.

For many of them have enjoyed near to 20 years as ministers but still cling to the fact that they still need to be members of parliament. This is unjust of them and once again I say kudos to all Ugandans who saw this and seriously halted their survival in the parliament.

Apart from that, there are near to five comedians-cum politicians in the next 10^th parliament. These are Hon. Paul Kato Lubwama for Rubaga South and Hon. Mubarak Munyagwa ‘aka’ Mugati gwa Butter for Kawempe South all in Kampala city. I don’t want to expect much from these two but observe how we, as Ugandans have accepted to be what we’re today.

Yes, these were the best candidates in the respective constituencies. The moment I saw them announced as honorable members of parliament elect, I came to understand what Sir Matthias Walukagga sung in his Kadongo kamu song, “abantu bakowu…” This can be loosely translated as ‘People (Ugandans) are tired (of everything)’! Even though Hon. John Ken Lukyamuzi had lost his grip on Rubaga South as well as serving for decades, it was that shooting for him to get home and rest.

With Ssebuliba Mutumba Muddu Awulira, he was that promising but fact has been that he has been surviving on borrowed time in Kawempe south. Previously as a youthful MP with the likes of Latif Ssebaggala, Mike Mabikke and Erias Lukwago, these were DP stalwarts whom everyone believed that they will function well as MPs but unfortunately he has gone salient with time.

In my opinion, he deserved to lose his seat amicably! He only left Munyagwa to shine with his famous pepper Dhuwa and his hot exchange with Sheikh Nuhu Muzaata Batte, plus his famous and continuous demonstrations. To the many people in this constituency, he was seen as a man and leader who care for his people even though he was only a Mayor of Kawempe division. In this case, Munyagwa used his position so well to reach the higher office which he rightfully deserves.

With Kato Lubwama, Mubarak Munyagwa, Allan Ssewanyana ‘aka’, ‘Omusajja wa’ bwino’ expect comedy in the 10^th parliament with a mixture of the traditional ‘NTV’s Zungululu news’ at hand every day to all Ugandans.

The 9^th parliament has been so weak that people have been sick and tired of it but, the 10^th one will simply be a disaster. I’m not basing my argument on the above mentioned comedians but simply on the analysis of those elected in general. A case in point, FDC has lost most of her strong-holds Parliamentary seats.

These are, among others, Honorables Kasiano Wadri, Jack Sabiti, Odo Tayebwa, Geoffrey Ekanya, Alice Asianut Alaso, Wafula Oguttu, and Mwiru Paul. This shows how weak the FDC will be in the 10^th parliament. Even though the likes of Hon. Abdu Katuntu, Hon. Beatrice Atim Anywar, Hon. Ogenga Morris Latigo, Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi and new arrivals like Mwijukye Francis, the fact is that the NRMO has added to her numbers in parliament.

This therefore shows the fact that, just like in the outgoing Parliament, they will be free to do or discuss what they want at their own time of wish. In other words the parliament will be simply an extension of the NRMO caucus directly with a few pointing a finger at each other.

With less than 60 opposition members of parliament out of the 413 members, let no one in the NRMO party celebrate a win if at all we need a Uganda which is taking steps in the democratization process. The fact that accountability and questioning of the government activities is done by the opposition, it will be a great challenge for NRMO if at all cases we may have another ‘NRMO rebel MPs’.

By John Ricardo Munyegera

From the start of his campaign as an aspiring president of Uganda, John Patrick Amama Mbabazi aka JPAM has miserably failed to convince the populace on how good he can be a great leader.

From his calculative move as an independent presidential candidate leaning on both the NRMO-GO-Forward, and the defunct TDA (The Democratic Alliance), there were much empty promises of support within Buganda especially with the support from the Democratic Party which exactly failed miserably.

After declaring President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as the winner for 2016 national elections with 60.75%, closely followed by Dr. Kiiza Besigye with 35.85% in the second place, to me the third place has been the invalid votes with 4.69% instead of candidate John Patrick Amama Mbabazi.

On the papers from the electoral commission, he’s the third with a miserable 1.47% of the votes. It’s unfair to the invalid votes’ lot really, I therefore declare invalid votes by the powers vested in me (God knows by who and from where), as in the third position and not John Patrick Amama Mbabazi!

The many members of parliament like Hon. Medard Sseggona and Latif Ssebaggala were fighting their own constituency battles with stronger opposition, therefore, to bank on them for support and campaigning in Buganda region was a big blunder by candidate John Patrick Amama Mbabazi.

Even though Hon. Beatrice Atim Any-war seconded and supported him in Namboole during the nominations and even went ahead to claim that Dr. Kiiza Besigye was greedy, it was a matter of time for her to withdraw her support and go back to her mother political party, the FDC. He also ended up naming people on his campaign team yet they had not been convinced enough. One of them is Hon. Kasiano Wadri. That was a great blunder to him despite clinging on to the end.

What was much worrying was the fact that he left with his family and one Member of Parliament in support of him to stand against his friend Museveni. This brought many questions as to why this has happened despite his empty promises of more others to join him in the Go-Forward camp. This showed how he failed to convince many of his friends in NRMO to support his bid for presidency.

For the TDA, all its efforts with the likes of Hon. Norbert Mao and company were bound to fail. In the first aspect, they had a great deal of arguments as to why they have to support Amama Mbabazi over Dr. Kiiza Besigye. There were indeed no crucible reasons as to why you have to support an independent candidate over a person fronted by a party with support from the grassroots.

That alone overshadowed the fact that Mbabazi remained in the NRMO instead of either joining the opposition but from fronting arguments of a peaceful transition from NRMO of steady progress to that of the Go-Forward. This was the same NRMO according to many voters in different regions of Uganda.

There was also an assertion that, Mbabazi is Museveni and Museveni is Mbabazi especially as they have been great historical friends for ages of time. Actually over 40 years therefore, it was not clear who Mbabazi was to the voters.

The Go-Forward team was indeed subdued by the social media supporters instead of actual voters on the ground. Believe me or not, one person can own over five accounts on twitter, face book or Tumblr, it’s therefore difficult to know who’s one’s actual supporter or vice versa. What of the fact that many of followers for example on twitter are not Ugandans? What about the case that they are Ugandans in the Diaspora and therefore cannot support or even vote for you?

Indeed, many Ugandans are not even informed of these social media cases and this is another reason why John Patrick Amama Mbabazi was more-less that of Elton Joseph Mabirizi and Kyalya Maureen Walube inclusive. He presented the same argument of illusion thinking or ‘what I promise to do is not exactly what I’m going to do.’ Such promises are quite questionable and can’t be the based to country struggling with nursing democratization principles.

Also, the monetization of politics in Uganda was another element that lifted Amama Mbabazi to higher expectations than the truth of democracy in Uganda. You can agree with me that, many Mbabazi supporters expected a lot of funding but immediately he released no coins in terms of shillings; the worst was the only expectation of his verdict.

His great oratory skills never worked in his favor and had a great challenge in the face-off in the second debate. What happened was that he comes out in support of Museveni over different issues tabled especially that of the Democratic Republic of Congo. All these arguments were not in his favor yet all his supporters had never thought of it.

Mbabazi’s failure also points to the fact of the baseless crowds. These fans might have come to see him for the first time, especially the man who was a primed super minister in Museveni’s government for a long time. Let me look at his campaign rally in Kasokoso (Kiira municipality, Wakiso district)…

He continued in his good speech that he has never known of the problems the people in this area were facing. But, if they elect him, he promised, he would sort them out! The dilemma of such a statement was the fact that, he has been in the government and these people have been rioting over the land issues and he blatantly tells them that he never heard of their plight at all! This was a grand mistake against none else bur himself.

Therefore, Hon. John Patrick Amama Mbabazi’s charisma was an empty miscalculation than the truth of leading Uganda. If he came out to campaign as usual as the Kinkizi west member of parliament, that was good for him than the presidential aspirations. For his twitter followers and indeed face book friends, what needs to be done is simply actual voting and not following him next time. This is in hope he won’t be caught up by the constitutional age limit.

On the other note however, he had one of the best manifestos and plan for Uganda even though in itself, it had its own challenges. Maybe his friend, President Yoweri Museveni might adopt some of the ideas and plans just like he adopted the graduated tax idea which was originally a Kiiza Besigye one. But all is not lost, he might get back in the fold as a minister in the next cabinet reshuffle based on the fact that he’s still a member of the NRMO political party.