ANT's Muntu urges youth to rise above deceit

________________

The Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) presidential candidate, Mugisha Muntu, has called on Ugandan youth to rise above deceit and liberate their country from selfish and corrupt leaders before it is too late.

As Muntu concluded his campaign tour of the Acholi sub-region on Sunday (November 9) with a rally at Pajule trading centre, Pajule subcounty in Pader district, he lamented that Uganda’s development has been stalled for 40 years due to the actions of fraudsters and politicians who prioritise personal interests over the welfare of the people.

“The time has come for the youth to take charge and demand real change,” Muntu said.

“We have been fed lies, propaganda, and manipulation for far too long. It's time for us to reclaim our country."

Muntu emphasised that the youth hold the key to Uganda’s liberation and must lead the struggle for genuine change. “You are the future of this country, and it's time for you to take your rightful place as leaders,” he told the cheering crowd.

He shared his own story, recalling his early years in the army. “I joined the army at the age of 23 years and became the army commander at the age of 30 years while commanding over 100,000 soldiers as the top commander of the National Resistance Army (NRA) that was later changed to Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces until 1998,” he disclosed.

“You, the youth, have to keep fighting no matter how long it takes to achieve victory to achieve freedom, live a life of dignity, and that’s why you must not surrender and lose hope of liberating this country,” he urged.

“When we took power in 1986, I could have stopped fighting at the end of the struggle and joined NRM to continue squeezing you, but the ultimate objective and purpose in life was that we must have a country where there is justice, fairness, equality before the law and living the life of dignity. If I do not experience this myself, I will fight until I go to heaven while knowing that I fought and never gave up,” he observed.

The ANT presidential candidate outlined several sectors requiring urgent attention, including education, healthcare and employment. He pledged that his administration would prioritise these areas to empower young people with skills relevant to the global economy.

“We will invest in education and training programmes that are tailored to the needs of the job market," Muntu said.

"We will also provide incentives for entrepreneurship and innovation, and ensure that our youth have access to affordable healthcare."

Youth warned against reckless living

Muntu cautioned young Ugandans against reckless behaviour that could expose them to HIV/AIDS and other health risks.

He stressed the importance of responsible living and urged young people to prioritise their health and well-being.

“As young people, you are the future of this country, and it's crucial that you take care of your health and make informed decisions about your lives," he said.

Muntu highlighted the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS on individuals, families, and communities, calling on the youth to practise safe sex, get tested regularly, and seek medical help when necessary.

“We must work together to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and support those who are living with the virus," Muntu revealed.

“As a leader, I promise to prioritise the health and well-being of young people and ensure that they have access to quality healthcare services."

His message comes as Uganda continues to grapple with a high HIV/AIDS burden, with an estimated 1.4 million people living with the virus. Although the country has made progress, he said more must be done to address the epidemic.

He further warned against substance abuse and violence, saying these vices could derail the youth’s potential.

“As young people, you are vulnerable to many risks and challenges, but with the right information and support, you can make informed decisions and live healthy, productive lives," observed Muntu.

“I urge you to prioritise your health, stay safe, and work towards a brighter future for yourselves and your communities."

The rally was attended by hundreds of young people who received Muntu’s message with enthusiasm and commitment.