The Uganda People's Congress (UPC) has sharply criticized the government for organizing Heroes Day celebrations while the nation grapples with severe issues such as abject poverty and rampant unemployment, particularly among the youth.
The Uganda People's Congress (UPC) has taken a strong stance against the government's decision to hold Heroes Day celebrations, citing numerous pressing challenges facing the country.
Party spokesperson Arach Oyat Sharon argued that the theme of this year's event,
"Hail Our Heroes; A Secure Uganda is Now a Reality," is a stark contradiction to the current state of the nation.“
A secure Uganda can’t be a reality when the majority of our people are limping in poverty,” Oyot stated.
She pointed out that the government's social-economic programs, including Emyooga and Operation Wealth Creation, have failed to lift citizens out of poverty.
"These programs have not achieved their intended goals, leaving many Ugandans trapped in a cycle of poverty and exacerbating industrial unrest."
Ayot highlighted the decline in social services, particularly in education and health, and criticized the government's taxation policies.
“Unfair taxation policies are overburdening the business community and contributing to the collapse of businesses. In such a weak economy, organizing celebrations is unwarranted,” she added.
Drawing a comparison between the current administration and previous governments, Sharon praised the contributions of former leaders Idi Amin and Dr. Milton Obote.
"Comparing the current government to the former UPC government is an insult. The social-economic infrastructure we enjoy today was established by past governments, with the current regime merely renovating them despite nearly 40 years in power," she asserted.
Oyat also highlighted the struggles faced by farmers in the Luweero Triangle, a region she described as potentially rich in agriculture.
“Farmers are battling pests, diseases, prolonged drought, and a lack of marketing techniques for their products. The government has not provided sufficient support to overcome these challenges,” she said.
In a call to action, Oyat urged all Ugandans who desire change to join the push for electoral reforms, as recommended by the Supreme Court and other stakeholders.
“As political agitators in the opposition, we need to unite, regardless of our ideological differences, to promote the interests of our people,” she emphasized.
Looking ahead to the next election, She announced that the UPC's party president would contest for the presidency.
“Our leader will run for the highest office to remove the NRM from power and make ‘Hail Our Heroes; A Secure Uganda’ a reality,” she declared.
The UPC's criticism of the government’s decision to hold Heroes Day celebrations comes at a time when many Ugandans are feeling the strain of economic hardship and social instability, raising questions about the appropriateness of such festivities in the current climate.
