In a surprising turn of events, former Members of Parliament (MPs) failed to attend their alumni meeting at Parliament. The meeting, intended to reunite former MPs and celebrate their contributions, saw a lukewarm response.
Low Turnout and Reasons
Only a handful of former MPs showed up, with many opting to stay away. Sources close to the former MPs revealed they felt uncomfortable attending. They feared ridicule and humiliation from their former colleagues and successors. “They didn’t want to be reminded of their defeat and loss of status,” said a source.
Fear of Justifying Time in Office
Some former MPs were also concerned about being questioned regarding their achievements while in office. “They felt they wouldn’t be able to justify their time in Parliament,” added the source. This fear of scrutiny contributed significantly to their decision to avoid the event.
Need for Supportive Political Culture
The absence of many former MPs raises questions about Uganda’s political culture. There is a clear need for a more supportive and inclusive environment for politicians, both in and out of office. The few who attended the meeting called for a change in mindset, encouraging politicians to view defeat as an opportunity for growth and learning.
Calls for Change
“We need to celebrate our achievements and learn from our failures,” said one former MP who attended. The low turnout has sparked a wider conversation about the need for a more embracing political culture. Politicians should come together, share experiences, and support each other, regardless of their current status.
Wider Implications
The alumni meeting’s low turnout, with only 105 out of over 1,000 former MPs attending, highlights a significant issue. It underscores the need for a shift in how politicians perceive defeat and loss of status. This event should be a wake-up call for fostering a more supportive environment for all politicians.
In conclusion , the reluctance of former MPs to attend their alumni meeting due to fear of ridicule and humiliation is a reflection of the current political culture in Uganda. There is an urgent need for a change in mindset and a more supportive environment for politicians. Encouraging a culture of mutual support and learning can help create a more positive political landscape.
