By Stephen Ouma Bwire.
As the National Resistance Movement (NRM) celebrates 37 years in power since President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni came to power on January 26, 1986, corruption and impunity have grown and are almost becoming institutionalized.
Individuals are taking the law in their hands and directing repression at citizens on flimsy or fabricated cases. The men with guns have become a menance in society and have inflicted pain and fear on wanainchi who now see little difference from past regimes. When the NRM government came to power it promised to usher in a fundamental change that would include effecting total security for citizens and their property.
Today land grabbers are assisted by some security officials especially the police as they execute their missions sometimes injuring or even eliminating victims in broad day but remain at large without being brought to book.
Corruption is growing to unmanageable levels as officials involved in implementation of government projects fleece public funds as service delivery declines to the lowest ebb.
Inflation is growing and poverty especially in the countryside is high as most wanainchi cannot afford basic needs including essential commodities. Health centres are dilapidated and poorly run with no basic drugs for simple first aid treatment.
The education sector is in a sorrow state with the government – aided Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools conducting classes in makeshift structures while some have classes conducted under mango trees.
Significantly to note is the indicators some government officials advance as evidence for economic growth that includes number of bungalows. super markets, pharmacies, and bars in urban centres.
President Museveni is credited for stabilizing the country which has enabled Ugandans engage in productive ventures.
Government through a liberalized economic policy has seen many investments made by both Ugandans and foreigners as more jobs are created despite high taxes endured.
Small and Medium scale entrepreneurs have created employment opportunities, generated income for Ugandans and increased the number of Ugandans employed, with increased savings and investments in income generating activities for self – sustainability.
The NRM government has made remarkable progress in road construction, reconstruction and upgrading feeder roads in the country. Local manufacturing industries have boosted production and some are exporting their products abroad including neighboring countries. Externalization of labour has employed bulk of Ugandan youths, boda boda riding has created incomes hence invetments. But Ugandans still need to enjoy fundamental freedoms and the rule of law■
