In an electrifying address during the National Unity Platform’s ongoing countrywide tour, party president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu received an overwhelming reception from the people of Greater Masaka, a region deeply scarred by Uganda’s tumultuous political history yet steadfast in its hope for change.
National Unity Platform leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, led a vibrant rally in Greater Masaka yesterday as part of the party’s NUP Country-wide Tour.
The visit was marked by enthusiastic crowds and fervent calls for political change, underscoring Masaka’s historical significance and enduring struggles.
Kyagulanyi’s address resonated deeply with the people of Masaka, a region that has played pivotal roles in Uganda’s political history, from the 1970s Tanzanian invasion that ousted Idi Amin to the 1985-1986 battles during Yoweri Museveni’s rise to power.
Masaka, once a prosperous hub for Uganda's coffee industry, has seen its fortunes wane under Museveni’s regime, leading to widespread discontent among its residents.
“Masaka has played a significant role — and paid a heavy price — in Uganda's political history,” Kyagulanyi stated.
“Despite its geographical location and historic significance, Greater Masaka and its people have nothing but pain and exploitation to show for it.”
Kyagulanyi highlighted the regime's policies that have stifled local industries, notably the coffee sector. He accused the government of enacting restrictive laws to benefit Museveni’s close allies at the expense of local farmers and businesses.
“The regime has ring-fenced all top foreign exchange earning industries, driving locals out for the benefit of Museveni and his allies,” he asserted.
The emotional high point of Kyagulanyi's speech came when he addressed the unresolved issues of violence and abduction that have plagued Masaka.
The region has been haunted by a series of brutal machete attacks and mysterious disappearances around election periods.
“The people of Masaka are yet to get answers about who was behind the machete-wielding assailants who hacked to death their relatives,” Kyagulanyi said.
“Neither do they have answers for the abduction of many of their children around the 2021 presidential election.” source close to the NUP remarked on the palpable sense of hope and unity among the attendees. “There was a clear message of resilience and determination. “
The people of Masaka are ready for change, Kyagulanyi also took the opportunity to dispel rumors of internal discord within NUP, emphasizing the party’s unity against a common adversary, Contrary to narratives being peddled by the regime.
