I Won't Stand – Nkangi

By Felix Osike JUSTICE and constitutional affairs minister Jehoash Mayanja Nkangi yesterday announced he will not seek re-election in the June parliamentary elections. He joins several other veteran legislators, including finance and economic planning minister Gerald Ssendaula, First deputy premier and foreign affairs minister Eriya Kategaya, local government minister Bidandi Ssali and the Minister in charge of the presidency, Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda who have also decided to quit. Nkangi, 69, the oldest MP in the House representing Kalungu West, Masaka district, has been in active politics for over 30 years. "I am not standing for Parliament. I think I have done something for this country," he told The New Vision. Nkangi, a lawyer, monetary economist and born-again Christian, said he would go back to private legal practice and preaching. "I am pretty sure I shall go back to the chambers do some bit of business as well," he said. Nkangi also said he would continue working for his constituency in other capacities. "I have been in Parliament for a long time. I am the only MP who was in Parliament in 1962. Some young people are coming up. Let them tussle it out." He advised the younger MPs to be "lovers of their country, efficient in political representation, compassionate and remember that Uganda is one in their service." Nkangi said he enjoyed the post independence Parliament because there was much freedom after protectorate rule. He regretted the militarisation of politics and insecurity in the country. Nkangi said his greatest achievement had been the economic advancement of the country. He said, "Politically many things have happened during my tenure in office." Nkangi, a founder member of the Conservative Party in 1980, said he would continue to steer the party. He has held about 11 ministerial posts and is serving in the Kabaka's government. Ends