Renowned city events promoter Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi is smiling ear to ear after being appointed minister by president Museveni.
On Thursday evening, March 21, the president of the Republic of Uganda, His excellence Yoweri Kaguta Museveni announced a cabinet reshuffle , introducing new faces while dropping others.
"I hereby inform the country that By virtue of the authority given to the President of Uganda by Articles: 108(2), 108A(1), 113(1) and 114(1) of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, That here below I publish a slightly amended list of the cabinet of Uganda,” he posted on his X handle formerly known as Twitter.
In the reshuffle, Mary Goretti Kitutu, Minister for Karamoja Affairs and her Minister of State Agnes Nadutu have been dropped.
Kitutu and Nandutu are currently facing charges related to swindling iron sheets meant for the Karachuna warriors in Karamoja.
Another prominent figure dropped is Vincent B Ssempijja – State Minister of Agriculture. He has been appointed Presidential Adviser and General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi – the Chief of Defence Forces who has been named Minister of State for trade, industry and Cooperatives (Trade).
In other changes, Museveni announced events promoter Balaam Barugahara the State Minister for Children and Youth Affairs replacing Hon Sarah Mateke.
A few minutes after the announcement, Balaam took to his socials to express his joy and appreciation to President Museveni for entrusting him with this new role.
"I thank the father of the nation, President @KagutaMuseveni, for appointing me Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development (Youth and Children Affairs). I also congratulate all the other appointed members of Cabinet. The appointment is a vote of confidence in me on behalf of my first unit, MK Army, the MK Movement now Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), Bunyoro, and the patriotic youth of Uganda.It is also an appointment for the art industry (artists and promoters) and the business community of Uganda," part of his post read.
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He also promised to serve the nation whole heartedly in overseeing policies and programs that impact the well-being of Uganda’s youngest citizens.
"I pledge to serve Uganda in a patriotic manner, listen to the youth and their concerns, engage with them, mobilise them, and empower them towards bettering themselves and improving their lives ," Balaam noted.
Balaam's appointment comes as a significant development, given his unwavering dedication and contribution to the NRM cause.
While many anticipated such recognition for his loyalty and hard work, the news might still come as a surprise to some, generating various reactions from the public.
Besides , Balaam’s elevation to this key ministerial position marks a milestone in his career and underscores the government’s acknowledgment of his efforts.
It should also be noted that Promoter Balaam is the National Vice Chair for the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) for Western region, a new movement spearheaded by Gen. Muhoozi.
