Salaam Musumba bows to pressure to storm Kamuli

Oct 24, 2012

Forum for Democratic Change party iron lady, Proscovia Salaam Musumba, has broken the long silence and declared her intention to contest as Kamuli LC5 Chairperson in the onrushing by-elections.

By Tom Gwebayanga

Forum for Democratic Change party iron lady, Proscovia Salaam Musumba, has broken the long silence and declared her intention to contest as Kamuli LC5 Chairperson in the onrushing by-elections.

Musumba who has become a common sight at functions, fundraising, association meetings and conferences in the region, said she knows the trust, confidence and hope the people have in her but cautioned them to demonstrate stamina against Government machinations, intimidations and harassment right from nomination to Election Day.

“I have always sacrificed for democracy, that’s why I have bowed to public pressure but this time, you should demand to redeem and steer the district in this political leadership transition, make it competitive and block intrigue that destroys us,” Musumba said at Labor Stage in Kamuli town on Tuesday.

She urged that Kamuli, like Uganda, needs to embrace democratic leadership and hold its leaders accountable by creating a shift from the blind party allegiance and sycophancy built on personalities and individuals using others for their own selfish interests.

“What we need now is proper leadership not one that keeps the civil servants in fear and being terrorised instead of performing and holding us together,” Musumba, whose campaign slogan is "Tulumbe" (let's attack), added.

Edward Katangula, a supporter in Kiwolera, Nabwigulu Sub County said it’s high time people pack their parties in their garages till 2016 and bring a resolute choice, Musumba, a Universal material.

“She can stabilize the NRM warring Kadaga and Kawugu faction that fronted Thomas Kategere, their party flag bearer.

Musumba warned voters to be vigilant because in 2007, when she lost to Stephen Mubiru, her votes were stolen at the tallying centre.

“You voted for me overwhelmingly but you failed to follow the votes to the tallying centre, where the results were altered." she lamented.

She said for the sake of harmony, President Museveni should keep off these campaigns after all; he needs her as the lost sheep more than others.

Hajat Rehema Watongola, the chief campaigner for the NRM’s Kategere, termed the decree as relevant to the greedy party members because when she contests, many benefit financially.

“When she stands, many expect cash and I am not surprised if our colleagues should celebrate over her decree,” Watongola, who lost to Speaker Kadaga, said.

The by-election follows a court ruling that nullified the election of Ahmed Kawugu’s over doubted academic credentials last November.

Nominations shall be conducted on November 1-2 while the elections are on the 29th.

Salaamu is to face NRM’s Thomas Kategere and Kamuli DP Chairman, Jamada Kiyingi.

The race has also attracted independent candidates like Kaloli Dhizaala, Ibrahim Mbadhi, Charles Isanga, Fred Bamutiire and Michael Kifubangabo.

To show their support, bodaboda cyclists in Kamuli town have already started a fundraising drive to facilitate Musumba’s nomination fees and fuel on the day she is to be nominated.

 

 

 

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});