Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-03-27 06:03:34
Last week, President Yoweri Museveni made significant changes to the Ugandan cabinet by appointing Balaam Barugahara and Lilian Aber to key positions. Balaam was named the state minister for Youth and Children’s Affairs, taking over from Sarah Mateke, who now serves as the Minister of State for Defense and Veteran Affairs. Meanwhile, Aber was appointed as the state minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees. In addition, Phiona Nyamutoro was given the role of state minister for Mineral Development. These appointments were highly anticipated and were seen as a reflection of their loyalty and involvement in the selection processes leading to their roles.
It is believed that Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the first son and chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), played a significant role in influencing these appointments. Balaam and Aber have been working closely with Gen. Muhoozi in western and northern Uganda, respectively. Sources suggest that Gen. Muhoozi requested academic documents from his associates to facilitate their consideration for cabinet positions during the reshuffle.
One source disclosed that after submitting their academic documents, they were confident of their appointments. President Museveni is said to have recognized their loyalty, dedication, consistency, and ability to deliver, distinguishing them from individuals seen as opportunists seeking personal gains.
Balaam expressed his gratitude to President Museveni for the appointment and pledged to focus on improving the lives of young people and upholding their rights. He applauded Gen. Muhoozi for recognizing his worth and bringing him on board. Aber denied having prior knowledge of her appointment and stated that Gen. Muhoozi did not request any documents from her. She emphasized the importance of advancing the agendas of PLU while balancing the work of the ministry and the movement.
Aber highlighted the significance of being trusted by the head of state and expressed her commitment to delivering what is expected of her. PLU aims to promote patriotism, national pride, service, protection of vulnerable individuals, combating corruption, and safeguarding the environment.
Igara West MP Michael Mawanda, a PLU member, affirmed the league’s commitment to mobilizing Ugandans to fulfill their civic duties in a non-partisan and non-sectarian manner. The PLU aims to revive patriotism and contribute to societal well-being, preserving Uganda’s unique natural and social harmony.
The genesis of Balaam and Aber’s appointment traces back to the NRM retreat in Kyankwanzi in June 2023, where Museveni addressed the issue of frustrated youth turning to the MK group due to perceived weaknesses within the NRM. Following consultations between Generals Museveni and Muhoozi, the rebranding of the MK movement was conceptualized.
In other notable changes, Agnes Nandutu, the former state minister for Karamoja, appealed to President Museveni for forgiveness after being replaced in the mini cabinet reshuffle. The reshuffle also saw the appointment of new ministers and changes in various positions aimed at improving governance and addressing challenges within the government.
Overall, these appointments reflect a strategic realignment within the cabinet, with a focus on loyalty, dedication, and the promotion of national interests. President Museveni’s leadership and Gen. Muhoozi’s influence are instrumental in shaping the current composition of the Ugandan cabinet.
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