Support multi-partyism

Jun 23, 2004

THE GOVERNMENT and 12 political organisations have signed a memorandum of understanding that outlines ideals for a stable political future.

THE GOVERNMENT and 12 political organisations have signed a memorandum of understanding that outlines ideals for a stable political future.

Chaired by the National Political Commissar, Crispus Kiyonga, the talks outlined sovereignty of the people, national security, human rights, constitutionalism and the rule of law, patriotism, a God-fearing nation, fiscal and monetary discipline, social and economic justice as a doctrine on which we can build a politically stable Uganda.

The pact has come as part of the unfolding new political dispensation that will accommodate multi-partyism. There is a constitutional requirement for a change of political system from movement to multi-partyism. There are two provisions — a referendum for the people to approve, and Parliament with district councils passing a resolution — for the change to be effected.

The memorandum’s ideals are sound. But then it was signed by only some parties.

Most of the mainstream parties, many in the so-called G7, remained outside, with cynical views. This cynicism is doing a disservice to the country; it is essentially a selfish knee-jerk reaction, against the management of the political transition, which does not consider the common good. The parties, big beneficiaries of a multi-party setting, will determine whether or not the public views the prospect of multi-partyism positively. Of course it should be positive. We all owe it to ourselves and to future generations to make multi-partyism work.

It is critical that all forces — political parties, the Government, academics, the media, elected representatives, donors — support the foundation that is being laid in order to make multi-partyism work.

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