Hon. Fred Mukasa Mbidde, the Vice President of the Democratic Party (DP), has voiced his criticism regarding President Yoweri K. Museveni’s appointment of singer Mark Bugembe, commonly known as Buchaman, as the president’s ghetto envoy. Mbidde expressed concerns about the appointment, stating that it sends the wrong message.
According to Mbidde, someone who comes from the ghetto cannot effectively serve as an advisor on ghetto issues. He believes that individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds like Buchaman, who are still residing in the ghetto, cannot offer practical solutions to help others escape their circumstances. “You can’t have someone from the ghetto as an advisor because they are already a victim. That means you’re creating a cycle and corridor of disability,” Mbidde asserted.
Mbidde Compares Buchaman’s Appointment to Appointing a Disabled Leader for Disabled People
Hon. Mukasa Mbidde drew a comparison between Buchaman’s appointment and appointing a person with a disability to lead others with similar challenges. He emphasized that such appointments only perpetuate the cycle of hardship and do not bring about substantial change. He stated that if Buchaman truly had the knowledge and ability to help others escape the ghetto, he would have done so himself by now. “If Buchaman had the knowledge of rescuing others from the ghetto, he would have left the ghetto long ago,” Mbidde added.
Mbidde’s comments reflect a broader concern about the suitability of leadership in addressing the needs of marginalized groups. He believes that leadership should be based on experience and success in overcoming adversity, rather than continuing the same patterns of hardship.
Political Party DP’s Mistake in Kawempe North MP By-Election
In addition to his comments on the ghetto envoy appointment, Mbidde also weighed in on the recent Kawempe North MP by-election. He stated that his political party, the DP, made a mistake by participating in the election. Mbidde had requested that the party support a candidate from the opposition, but his suggestion was not followed. He expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s decision, calling it a misstep that could have been avoided.
Mbidde’s Critique of Leadership and Party Strategy
Mbidde’s criticisms highlight ongoing tensions within Uganda’s political landscape, particularly regarding leadership appointments and party decisions. His concerns about Buchaman’s appointment reflect his broader stance on leadership, where he advocates for experience and tangible solutions, rather than maintaining the status quo.
As for the DP’s role in the Kawempe North by-election, Mbidde’s dissatisfaction points to a divide within the party about its approach to opposition politics. His calls for greater unity and strategic decision-making are likely to continue shaping discussions within the party and the broader Ugandan political sphere.
