In a heartfelt plea before fellow legislators, the Member of Parliament for Bugweri County, Abdul Katuntu implored his colleagues to renounce the divisive politics of extremism.
Katuntu made this fervent call during a special session at Parliament on Tuesday, convened to pay tribute to the late former Minister, Henry Kisajja Magumba Kyemba. Where he firmly expressed his belief that unity is paramount and that the collective well-being of society should be the primary focus.
Katuntu’s appeal comes at a pivotal moment in Uganda’s history, as political polarization has surged to alarming levels. Extremist viewpoints and actions threaten to erode the very foundations of the nation’s democratic system. Given his reputation as a seasoned lawmaker committed to bipartisan cooperation, Katuntu’s words resonate powerfully with the shared aspiration for a more harmonious and constructive political environment.
During his address, Katuntu noted that in recent weeks, the parliamentary environment resembled a battleground. However, he expressed his amazement at the transformation witnessed during the special session, where all members spoke with unity of purpose.
“It has been very long since I watched a debate in this House like today. I have been sitting here, looking at all of you and wondering what it is that sparks such unity and constructive discussion. You are all speaking with one voice as leaders of this country. What has changed?” he inquired.
He went on to encourage members to learn from the legacy of the late Kyemba and avoid engaging in the politics of extremism, emphasizing its detrimental effects on both leaders and the communities they represent.
“When someone passes away, colleagues, our discussions should not merely focus on the departed but on what lessons we can derive from their life. The politics of extremism will not benefit us in any way,” Katuntu stressed.
Furthermore, Katuntu issued a warning to members of the ruling party, advising them not to align themselves with the mistakes of the regime, as these mistakes may come back to haunt them in the future.
“Mzee Kyemba served in Amin’s regime, widely regarded as one of the most problematic regimes in Uganda’s history, yet he concluded his service without a hint of scandal. This serves as a lesson to us, especially those currently serving in this regime: do not associate yourselves with the regime’s missteps. Some of you may attempt to defend the regime’s errors, but concealing wrongdoing is not the solution. We are all Ugandans, and if there are issues in the country, we are all affected. Regimes make mistakes, but wise individuals within those regimes can help rectify them,” he cautioned.
In an era defined by escalating ideological divisions and an increasingly rancorous political discourse, Abdul Katuntu’s appeal stands as a poignant reminder of the core principles that underpin a functioning democracy.
His message also underscores the imperative of bridging the chasm that has plagued the legislative arena, emphasizing the significance of compromise, cooperation, and a shared commitment to the greater good.
Meanwhile, Katuntu’s call for his fellow legislators to shun extremist politics offers a glimmer of hope in a nation striving for unity, stability, and effective governance.
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