President Yoweri Museveni’s former right-hand man and ex-Prime Minister John Patrick Amama Mbabazi has finally declared his readiness to challenge him for the NRM presidential flag-bearer, ahead of the 2016 elections.
But Mbabazi’s announcement, has met with a combination of skepticism as well as mild support across social media platforms.
In the Youtube video, Mbabazi tries to present himself as a cut from the past and distinctly different from the NRM for which he worked in several positions.
He said: “You’ll be making a choice for your families, your children, and the generations to come. A new age is upon us, and upon this, our focus must rest. Yesterday is gone, and today’s challenges must have newer, better answers. Uganda can work; together let us make it work.” Mbabazi
“I will be seeking your vote first within my party, the NRM as its flag bearer and later on in the whole country,” he said.
Mbabazi’s candidacy has been met with significant opposition from several platforms. He once described himself as the architect of most of the laws currently considered as oppressive and draconian by the opposition.
A number of those who doubt his bid argue that his bid is not any different from that of President Museveni, with whom they worked for nearly 40 years.
One Jonah Omagor, commented on Mbabazi’s video that: “The changes that Uganda needs to transform can’t come from these former NRM bullies who have got history of corruption.”
Mbabazi, the Kinkizi west MP, who was sacked as PM in September 2014, has since kept his supporters guessing as to his next move.
Mbabazi insists that he is still part of the ruling NRMO political party as he admits that he is ready to battle other contenders as the party flag bearer in 2016 polls.
The following are some of the issues Mbabazi says he wants to address.
1. Reviving Uganda’s democracy and institutions.
2. Transforming the economy and attracting heavy local and foreign investment.
3. Promoting equitable development where all communities and all regions of the country equally benefit from decisions made by the government.
4. Providing jobs that are fit for the 21st century.
5. Ensuring a greater level of accountability on the part of your leaders and making a stronger effort at fighting corruption at all levels.
6. Reinforcing observance of and respect for the rule of law while ensuring security for all.
7. Providing good quality healthcare.
8. Enhancing the quality of education and addressing the skills gap.
