The Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom, Charles Peter Mayiga has voiced his support for Minister of State for Youth and Children, Balaam Barugahara, in his endeavors to secure the release of Political Prisoners associated with the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Mayiga’s backing signifies a significant development in the ongoing discussion regarding the freedom of opposition political detainees who have been held for more than three years.
Addressing members of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) during their visit to Mengo to express solidarity for the upcoming “Kabaka Birthday Run,” Katikkiro commended the newly appointed ministers. He urged them to uphold their proclaimed patriotism by serving the people of Uganda selflessly.
The Katikkiro urged the ministers to prioritize the interests of Ugandans in their official duties, emphasizing the importance of dedication and commitment to the nation’s well-being.
“I am happy to greet the recently appointed ministers and wish them well in their productivity as they serve . I’m happy to see the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) assisting us in this admirable endeavor. The most priceless gift that God has given us is life. Your being here today to offer support shows true patriotism as we fight HIV, which has affected us all,” Katikiiro Mayiga said.
The Katikiiro also urged them to give attention to the issues that Ugandans are troubled by, pointing out that this is the only way to gain the people’s favor.
“A fresh passion for our nation is mostly dependent on fairness… We must maintain honesty and integrity in all that we do if we are to succeed in this. In order to ensure justice, I urge the Patriotic League of Uganda to assume leadership. Take the lead in battling corruption… Fighting corruption is how we can instill love and pride in our country back. Let’s get together to combat corruption, which has been a key contributing element to Ugandans’ unhappiness,” he declared.
“Moreover, let us embrace compassion and unity. Uganda is a large country with plenty of room for everyone to live in harmony.“For this reason, I applaud Honorable Barugahara for his promise to see to it that all NUP political prisoners are released. I wholeheartedly endorse his endeavor, as someone who hasn’t personally witnessed the appalling circumstances found inside prison walls might not appreciate the seriousness of the matter. Imagine spending three years behind bars without being given a chance to defend themselves! Think about how it has affected their parents, friends, kids, and relatives. Honorable Barugahara, resolving this issue will benefit the country and bring relief to people but it will also strengthen the Patriotic League of Uganda in the eyes of Ugandans.” Katikiiro Mayiga Added.
Masaka-based NUP Councilor, Ali Kateregga, took the lead in the campaign to release opposition-affiliated political prisoners. Accompanying Minister Barugahara to the State House adorned in a red beret, Kateregga passionately appealed to President Museveni Kaguta for amnesty for all NUP detainees.
He likened this act to a gift of Idi to Ugandans and the families of those imprisoned for over three years.President Museveni graciously accepted Kateregga’s plea and instructed the minister to compile a list of political detainees.
Minister Barugahara is diligently ensuring that the list includes individuals without murder charges, simplifying the President’s decision-making process regarding pardoning certain prisoners as a gesture of Idi.