Top of the agenda is the State of the Nation Address, which President Museveni wants to understand how it is being prepared. This critical address will cover the status of the economy and other governance issues and is scheduled for June 6, ahead of the 2024/25 National Budget reading a week later.
Focus on the Economy and Governance
The meeting at State House comes amid intense scrutiny of the Speaker, who faces debilitating sanctions imposed by Western governments. The US government joined the UK in designating the Speaker, including her husband Moses Magogo, junior minister Amos Lugoloobi, and former deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Peter Elwelu. These sanctions underscore the severity of the governance challenges faced by the nation.
Political Tensions and Censure Motions
However, the Speaker’s troubles extend beyond international scrutiny. In the House, ruling NRM legislators Theodore Ssekikubo (Lwemiyaga County) and Sarah Opendi (Tororo Woman) are leading a censure motion against three political compatriots. Esther Afoyochan (Zombo Woman – NRM), Prossy Akampulira Mbabazi (Rubanda Woman – NRM), Solomon Silwany (Bukooli Central – NRM), and Mathias Mpuuga (Nyendo-Mukungwe – NUP) face censure over the misappropriation of Shs1.7 billion as a service award without the House’s approval.
President Museveni’s Stance
President Museveni has expressed anger over this so-called service award. The Speaker’s decision to distance herself while Ssekikubo and Opendi gather support for the censure adds to speculation about the ruling party’s involvement. This internal conflict within the NRM highlights the ongoing governance issues that will be addressed in the President’s upcoming speech.
Unexpected Political Developments
On Friday, Soroti West MP Jonathan Ebwalu surprised many by appending his signature to the censure motion. Previously, Ebwalu had been a staunch supporter of Speaker Among, actively working to dissuade fellow legislators from supporting the motion. His sudden change in stance has led to speculation that he was ordered to submit to higher authority, indicating deeper political maneuvers at play.
In conclusion, as President Museveni prepares to address the nation, the anticipation builds around his statements on the economy and governance issues. The State of the Nation Address will be a critical moment for Uganda, reflecting on the past year and setting the stage for the future, especially in light of the upcoming 2024/25 National Budget.
