Let’s take stock of 2008 as 2009 dawns

Dec 30, 2008

TODAY marks the end of 2008. As 2009 dawns on us, we must take stock of what we have done and failed to do. It is time for a national balance sheet, as it were. The country has suffered scandals upon scandals of corruption, violent murders, sexual immorality and child sacrifice. These have left many

TODAY marks the end of 2008. As 2009 dawns on us, we must take stock of what we have done and failed to do. It is time for a national balance sheet, as it were. The country has suffered scandals upon scandals of corruption, violent murders, sexual immorality and child sacrifice. These have left many traumatised and hopes flailing.

Prices of commodities, especially fuel, have gone through the roof and show no signs of respite. This requires tightening our belts even further.

The peace talks in Juba between the Government and Joseph Kony’s LRA have flopped once again, not out of the Government’s fault but because of Kony’s evil disposition. The Government and its allies have applied ‘Plan B’ and will continue pursuing him into the new year. Let us hope the campaign will this time bear fruit. Kony can choose to see sense and come out of the bush.

Northern Uganda in general and Acholi in particular, have enjoyed a particularly peaceful year after years of Kony’s murderous orgies. May the new year maintain this peace.

Politicians, both in the ruling NRM and those in the opposition, must recognise that Uganda belongs to us all and that they are only different sides of the same coin. This requires listening to one another with respect even if different opinions are expressed. Agreeing to disagree is a healthy and civilised approach to co-existence.

Political patronage which ignores common good to benefit a chosen few should be buried with 2008.

On a happy note, economically viable quantities of oil have been discovered in western Uganda. There is urgent need to plan for this precious natural resource intelligently, wisely, fairly and honestly.

The way the industry is handled will decide whether Uganda will suffer the proverbial ‘oil curse’ or shake off the shackles of misery and poverty.

The future of Uganda collectively lies in our hands as Ugandans regardless of our differences.

Happy New Year.

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