Counsel Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Kawempe North, has made explosive public remarks calling for the removal of Hon. Balaam Barugahara Atenyi, the current Minister for Youth and Children Affairs. In a fiery interview on BBS Telefayina, Nalukoola did not hold back in his condemnation of the controversial minister, asserting that Balaam is a “disgrace” and a “bad influence” on the youth of Uganda.
A Staunch Criticism of Balaam Barugahara Atenyi
During the interview, Nalukoola did not mince his words, claiming that Balaam, a figure in charge of the Ministry of Youth and Children Affairs, was not only unfit for his position but was actively doing harm to the youth. He said that Balaam’s actions and attitude were undermining the integrity of the young generation and that the minister had no place representing the country’s youth.
“I believe the Ministry needs to appoint someone else,” Nalukoola stated with conviction. “That gentleman, Balaam Barugahara Atenyi, must be removed and demoted from his position as Minister of Youth and Children Affairs. He is a liar, a disgrace, and a very bad influence on the children and youth. His actions show that he has an evil heart, and the youth need someone who exemplifies good behavior and integrity to be close to them.”
Allegations of Violence and Electoral Misconduct
The criticism from the Kawempe North MP-elect comes amidst serious allegations leveled against Minister Balaam. Nalukoola accuses him of playing a key role in the violence that marred the March 14th by-election, a highly charged and controversial political event.
In the aftermath of the by-election, a number of troubling incidents have been reported, including physical assaults on journalists, intimidation of opposition MPs, and the abduction of voters. Nalukoola suggests that Balaam’s involvement in these violent acts reflects poorly on his ability to lead and handle the responsibilities of his ministerial office.
“The violence during the March 14th by-election was not a mere coincidence. It is clear that Balaam Barugahara Atenyi was instrumental in orchestrating the chaos that unfolded,” Nalukoola claimed. “During that election, journalists were brutally beaten, opposition MPs were humiliated, and voters were abducted. These are acts that should never be tolerated, especially from someone holding such a powerful position.”
The Call for Leadership Change
Counsel Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola’s call for Balaam’s removal highlights a growing sentiment among certain Ugandan political figures that the country’s leadership, particularly in key ministries like Youth and Children Affairs, must reflect a commitment to positive values and ethical behavior. In light of the allegations against Balaam, there is increasing pressure for those in charge of youth-related affairs to act as role models, not individuals accused of fueling violence and spreading negativity.
The statement has stirred up a significant amount of attention within Uganda’s political landscape, with many wondering whether or not the Ugandan government will heed the call for a change at the helm of the Ministry of Youth and Children Affairs.
The Future of Uganda’s Youth Ministry
As the debate rages on, many citizens and political analysts are questioning the direction of Uganda’s youth affairs and the kind of leadership needed to foster a healthy and positive environment for the country’s younger generation. With Minister Balaam under intense scrutiny, there is growing demand for someone who can inspire, protect, and guide Uganda’s youth toward brighter futures.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Balaam Barugahara Atenyi and his role in the March 14th by-election has escalated to a critical point where calls for his removal are becoming louder. While Minister Balaam’s tenure as the head of the Ministry of Youth and Children Affairs has been marked by accusations of violence and poor leadership, his future in the Ugandan government now hangs in the balance. The question remains whether President Museveni’s government will respond to the growing chorus of dissent and take action to address these serious concerns.