By Moses Mulondo

THE Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) newly-elected president, Dr. Olara Otunnu, has retained Miria Obote’s cabinet and support staff.

According to sources in the party, Otunnu convened a staff meeting on Tuesday, where he promised to increase their salaries.

“Otunnu has ushered in a new era of political maturity in UPC which will change Uganda’s political landscape. He has retained Miria’s cabinet and staff and he will work day and night to bring back to the party all those who had been aggrieved,” said UPC youth leader Erick Sakwa.

Those who retained their portfolios include Jimmy Akena (vice-chairman), Chris Opoka (secretary general), Yona Kanyomozi (chairman), Badru Wegulo (vice-president) and Patrick Mwondha (treasurer).

Meanwhile, UPC leaders yesterday called for a thorough inquiry into the cause of the fire that gutted the Kasubi Royal Tombs.

“UPC extends sincere condolences to the Kabaka of Buganda, the Buganda Kingdom, and Ugandans at large for the loss of the kingdom’s heritage,” Wegulo stated.

He advised the Buganda Kingdom and the Central Government to resolve their differences to avert bloodshed that can arise from the escalating hostility between the two institutions.

“The hostility between Buganda and the Central Government is not good for either party. Whatever happens, we are losers as a nation. The ball is in the hands of the Government. Egos and selfish interests should be put aside for peace and justice,” Wegulo said.