Corruption at Swearing-in Ceremony Highlights Need for 'Kisanja No Sleep'

A recent swearing-in ceremony for President Museveni’s seventh elective term, initially appearing to be a grand spectacle, exposed underlying issues of corruption and preferential treatment. While the event was marked by military displays and a sea of supporters, the seating arrangement for religious leaders revealed a struggle for position and a deviation from orderly conduct.

Representing the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the author witnessed firsthand how a dignitary, despite representing a smaller religious group according to census data, managed to secure a prime front-row seat through what appeared to be a pre-arranged deal involving National Organizing Committee (NOC) staff. This incident, where seats were reserved and added to accommodate one individual, contrasted sharply with the organized seating for Catholic and Muslim leaders.

The author questioned how such preferential treatment could occur, noting that it contradicts the principle of “everything being done in a fitting and orderly way.” The incident serves as a microcosm of the larger corruption that President Museveni has pledged to combat.

The author expressed hope that this “Kisanja” (term) will be a period of “no sleep” for tackling corruption, from the highest offices to public service, allowing for genuine wealth and job creation.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)