Ssemaganda Moses Hope

Global

September 8, 2025

Speaker Among Delivers Museveni’s Opening Statement at 63rd AALCO Session, Reaffirms Uganda’s Commitment to International Law

 Munyonyo, Kampala – September 8, 2025 – The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, on Monday delivered the opening statement of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at the 63rd Session of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Organization (AALCO) Conference held at Speke Resort Munyonyo. In his message read by Speaker Among, the President warmly welcomed delegates from across Asia and Africa, describing the hosting of AALCO in Uganda as “a profound privilege” and an opportunity to reaffirm Uganda’s commitment to strengthening international law and cooperation between the two continents. “This is not an ordinary meeting, but a demonstration of our shared vision, collective aspirations, and unwavering commitment to strengthening the bonds between Asia and Africa through dialogue, cooperation, and the rule of law,” Museveni’s statement read. The President noted that Uganda was proud to host AALCO for the second time, having last hosted the session in 1993. He reminded delegates that the organization, born out of the historic Bandung Conference of 1955, has grown into a platform of 49 member states whose contributions to global legal frameworks remain invaluable.  Museveni, through Speaker Among, highlighted AALCO’s role in shaping key conventions such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties. He stressed that in the face of challenges like climate change, insecurity, economic inequality, and technological disruptions, AALCO’s voice is more critical than ever. “Asia and Africa must not merely react to global legal developments but must actively shape them in line with our priorities of sustainable development, sovereignty, and justice,” he said.The President commended the AALCO Secretariat for maintaining strong relations with international institutions such as the United Nations and urged member states to continue strengthening engagement, enhancing legal capacity, promoting inclusivity in global governance, and addressing emerging issues such as cyber security and artificial intelligence. He further extended gratitude to all government ministries, security organs, and partners whose combined efforts ensured the successful organization of the conference. As the five-day session gets underway, President Museveni, through the Speaker, called on delegates to chart a bold path forward that renews the Bandung Spirit and strengthens the solidarity of Asia and Africa. “Our shared future of peace, prosperity, and justice depends on our ability to work as one,” his statement concluded. The 63rd AALCO Session has drawn ministers, diplomats, legal scholars, and observers from across Asia and Africa, reaffirming Uganda’s role as a hub for international dialogue and cooperation. 

Religious

September 6, 2025

Speaker Anita Among Commends the Church’s Role in Promoting Unity, Peace, and Love

Kampala — In a heartfelt gesture, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among praised the Church’s pivotal role in fostering unity, peace, and love across the nation. Her remarks came during the 25th Priestly Jubilee celebration of Rev. Fr. Edward Muwanga at St. Charles Lwanga Parish in Ntinda, where hundreds of faithful gathered to honour his 25 years of priestly service—alongside fellow jubilarians Fr. Joseph Kirumira and Fr. Kizito Kiyimba. Addressing the congregation, Speaker Among lauded the Church’s unwavering commitment to bringing communities together and providing vital moral and spiritual guidance to Ugandans. She noted how religious institutions have remained beacons of hope, reinforcing social cohesion and inspiring a culture of compassion. Moreover, Speaker Among extended her commendation to the Government, under the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for steadfastly upholding freedom of worship. She emphasized that this protection of religious liberties has played a crucial role in uniting Ugandans across different faiths, thereby fortifying the country’s foundation of peace and tolerance.    Why this Matters  Community Building: Her remarks underscore the Church’s influential role in societal harmony and communal solidarity.Religious Freedom as Keystone: By applauding the government’s safeguarding of worship rights, Among highlighted religious freedom as a linchpin of national unity.High-Level Endorsement: The Speaker’s presence at the jubilee conveys the state’s recognition of the Church’s positive impact on society.  

Religious

September 6, 2025

Speaker Anita Among Commends the Church’s Role in Promoting Unity, Peace, and Love

 Kampala — In a heartfelt gesture, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among praised the Church’s pivotal role in fostering unity, peace, and love across the nation. Her remarks came during the 25th Priestly Jubilee celebration of Rev. Fr. Edward Muwanga at St. Charles Lwanga Parish in Ntinda, where hundreds of faithful gathered to honour his 25 years of priestly service—alongside fellow jubilarians Fr. Joseph Kirumira and Fr. Kizito Kiyimba. Addressing the congregation, Speaker Among lauded the Church’s unwavering commitment to bringing communities together and providing vital moral and spiritual guidance to Ugandans. She noted how religious institutions have remained beacons of hope, reinforcing social cohesion and inspiring a culture of compassion. Moreover, Speaker Among extended her commendation to the Government, under the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for steadfastly upholding freedom of worship. She emphasized that this protection of religious liberties has played a crucial role in uniting Ugandans across different faiths, thereby fortifying the country’s foundation of peace and tolerance.    Why this Matters  Community Building: Her remarks underscore the Church’s influential role in societal harmony and communal solidarity.Religious Freedom as Keystone: By applauding the government’s safeguarding of worship rights, Among highlighted religious freedom as a linchpin of national unity.High-Level Endorsement: The Speaker’s presence at the jubilee conveys the state’s recognition of the Church’s positive impact on society.  

Political

September 4, 2025

Former Makerere Guild President Shamim Nambassa Nominated as NUP Woman Lord Councillor for Kawempe South

 Kampala, Uganda — September 4, 2025 — Shamim Nambassa, former Guild President of Makerere University, has officially been chosen as the National Unity Platform’s (NUP) flag bearer for the Woman Lord Councillor (LC 5) seat in Kawempe South. In her announcement, Nambassa pledged to prioritize improvements to the health sector and advocate for policies that uplift the livelihoods of Kampala’s residents.   A Rising Star with Proven Leadership  Nambassa’s nomination follows a distinguished leadership trajectory. At just 27, she quickly scaled the ranks—initially serving on the Makerere Guild Council representing the School of Health Sciences, then becoming Academic Affairs Minister in 2021, and ultimately taking on the role of Guild President for the 2021/22 academic year—one of only five women to hold the prestigious position in Makerere’s 100-year history.  Her academic foundation stems from Parental Care School, followed by secondary education as head prefect at Nabisunsa Girls’ School, before earning a Bachelor of Pharmacy from Makerere University.   Focused on Service Delivery and Youth Leadership  In a recent appearance on Next Big Talk on Next Radio, Nambassa reflected on the competitive and emotionally charged nature of NUP’s flag bearer selection process, noting how passionately members value the party card. “The fact… people being hurt and disappointed… shows you the importance that comes with that ticket,” she said.  Her campaign remains dedicated to service delivery: especially enhancing healthcare and expanding livelihood-supportive policies. She called for strong, skilled, youth-led leadership to replace what she called the “bastardisation of the system”—where elected leaders fail to add tangible value to their communities. Emphasizing that Uganda’s youth are the largest demographic group, she motivated them to claim their place in shaping the nation’s future.   Youth, Meritocracy, and the Path Forward  Nambassa’s nomination coincides with a broader debate within NUP amid internal disagreements over candidate selections. Some aspirants have defected or gone independent. Despite this, she emphasized that her own journey underscores the party’s commitment to merit and transparency.   Why This Matters  Youthful representation: As a dynamic young leader, Nambassa embodies the shift toward youth-led politics that NUP champions.Service-first agenda: Her promise to prioritize health and livelihoods speaks directly to citizens’ everyday needs.Democratic growth: Her candidacy highlights the growing expectation for transparent and merit-based political processes—inside NUP and beyond.  As the countdown to the 2026 elections continues, Nambassa’s campaign marks a hope-filled narrative of service, competence, and generational change. 

Exposed

September 3, 2025

Hon. Charles Tebandeke Refutes Malicious Propaganda Targeting His Political Fame and Opposition to Regime

 I have taken note of a false and malicious article published by witnessug.com on September 3, 2025, alleging that I, Hon. Charles Tebandeke, Member of Parliament for Bbale County, intend to quit the National Unity Platform (NUP) after claims of being asked to pay Shs 300 million to retain the party flag. Let me set the record straight: I have never made such statements, nor have I threatened to leave NUP. These are baseless fabrications designed to tarnish my name and discredit the party’s internal democratic processes. It is clear that certain political opportunists—many of them tied to the NRM propaganda network—are capitalising on this sensitive season of flag bearer selections to spread lies, create artificial rifts, and weaken NUP’s strongest and most uncompromising candidates. This is cowardice, and it will not succeed. I remain firmly loyal to the National Unity Platform, committed to the values we stand for, and dedicated to serving the people of Bbale County. My focus is on preparing for 2026 under the NUP flag, working with colleagues to advance the struggle for a better Uganda. I call on our supporters and the general public to dismiss such propaganda with the contempt it deserves. We must remain vigilant, united, and resilient against all attempts to divide and derail our cause. Hon. Charles TebandekeMember of Parliament, Bbale County – Kayunga DistrictNational Unity Platform (NUP) 

Events

September 3, 2025

Faith Nakut Loru, on Behalf of Speaker Anita Among, Champions Actionable Sustainability at ICPAU’s 30th Annual Seminar

 Entebbe, Uganda – September 3, 2025 — In a powerful display of leadership and foresight, Hon. CPA Faith Nakut Loru proudly represented the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, during this morning’s opening session of the 30th ICPAU Annual Seminar at the Imperial Resort Beach Hotel. The seminar, running from September 3 to 5, 2025, offers participants 21 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours over three impactful days. Addressing a packed auditorium of accountants, business leaders, and professionals from across Uganda and beyond, Nakut Loru delivered a stirring call to redefine sustainability—not as a checkbox for compliance, but as a catalyst for transformative action across organisations, society, and the national economy. “The problem is not the Institute; the problem is our willingness to step out, take risks, and apply what we learn,” she said, urging participants to embrace sustainability as actionable outcomes that address real challenges in organisations and society while strengthening Uganda’s economic and social future. Representing Rt. Hon. Anita Among, she further emphasized that accountants must take on a bigger responsibility in shaping Uganda’s growth by leading with vision, fueling innovation, and solving challenges that directly impact communities. Her remarks resonated with the seminar’s theme of “Positioning Professionals for Sustainable Impact,” highlighting the expanded role accountants must assume—as visionaries, innovators, and drivers of national development.This landmark event—marking three decades of ICPAU’s flagship seminar—continues its legacy as Uganda’s largest gathering for the accountancy profession, bringing together stakeholders committed to professional excellence and national development. Key highlights of the seminar include: A strengthened emphasis on applied sustainability, urging professionals to lead with purpose, embrace innovation, and turn insights into action.An expansive CPD programme, structured to equip participants with cutting-edge skills for navigating contemporary challenges.A resounding message that accountants must evolve beyond traditional roles and become impact architects—leaders who drive meaningful change. As the seminar unfolds, it promises meaningful exchanges, strategic networking, and practical frameworks for professionals to integrate sustainability into the core of their practice. 

Featured

September 3, 2025

URA Defends Tax Measures Before COSASE, Assures Traders of Swift Border Clearance

 KAMPALA – Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officials, led by Commissioner General John Rujoki Musinguzi, have assured the nation that the Authority remains firmly committed to facilitating trade while collecting the much-needed revenue to fund government programs. Appearing before Parliament’s Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) to respond to the Auditor General’s report for the Financial Year 2023/2024, URA clarified issues raised during the recent traders’ strike over VAT, textile taxes, and customs delays. Commissioner General Musinguzi strongly defended the Authority, noting that URA cannot work against the very businesses that drive Uganda’s economy. “We collect taxes from businesses so we cannot be an obstacle to them. We are working under the clock to ensure cargo owners get justice. Every effort is being made to clear containers at the borders quickly and fairly,” Musinguzi told MPs. He explained that occasional delays at customs are not intentional, but rather part of the rigorous verification processes designed to protect both government revenue and genuine traders from unfair competition such as smuggling and undervaluation of goods. Musinguzi further emphasized that URA is implementing reforms to speed up clearance, including automation, risk-based inspections, and closer collaboration with border agencies. These changes, he said, will not only improve efficiency but also curb corruption loopholes. URA also assured MPs that continuous dialogue with traders remains central, and that the Authority is determined to create a predictable and transparent tax environment where businesses can thrive. By working closely with the business community, URA believes Uganda can strike the right balance between domestic revenue mobilization and private sector growth, both of which are essential to national development. 

Crime

September 2, 2025

Breaking :Former MUBS Principal Prof. Waswa Balunywa Remanded Luzira Prison Over Alleged Abuse Office

 Kampala, September 2, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Professor Waswa Balunywa, the former Principal of Makerere University Business School (MUBS), has been remanded to Luzira Prison following his court appearance at the Anti-Corruption Court. This marks a critical moment in Uganda’s crackdown on institutional corruption and ghost payroll schemes.  Charges and Legal Proceedings  Prof. Balunywa faces two counts of abuse of office, under Section 10(1) of the Anti-Corruption Court Act—each offense carrying a maximum sentence of seven years’ imprisonment. The prosecution alleges that between February and April 2023, Balunywa illegally appointed three administrative assistants—James Arike, Nathan Nuwagira, and Nimrod Kakayi—despite their lack of requisite academic qualifications, resulting in ineligible costs to government. Further, he faces fresh accusations of illegally appointing:103 academic staff17 administrative staff69 support staffthat should lawfully have been recruited by a designated appointing committee.     Co-Accused and Broader Context  Jacqueline Namaganda, former Acting Human Resource Director at MUBS and now Chief Quality Assurance Officer, stands as a co-accused on charges of neglect of duty. She has been granted cash bail of Shs 4 million, with sureties bound at Shs 50 million, and ordered to surrender her passport. These case proceedings are part of a wider “ghost workers” scandal, implicating over 30 officials from various institutions—including the Civil Aviation Authority, Uganda Police Force, and Entebbe Hospital—in schemes that reportedly cost the government over Shs 53 billion annually. The scandal is a central feature of President Museveni’s intensified anti-corruption campaign. The Inspectorate of Government and CID investigations have so far led to arrests of senior officials.    Court Developments & Next Steps  Prior to this appearance, Balunywa had failed to show up in court, citing health reasons and uncertainty over whether summonses had been properly served. The court ultimately granted an extension and instructed the prosecution to serve his lawyers directly. The remand order is set to last until September 5, 2025, pending further hearings.      Why It Matters  Prof. Balunywa is a renowned academic and administrator who served as MUBS Principal from 1997 to 2023—a period during which he significantly shaped university management and established the private student scheme. The case not only tests legal accountability but also reflects growing public expectations for transparency in higher education and public institutions.As proceedings unfold, they will likely set precedents for handling senior officials in Uganda’s fight against corruption—and potentially influence reforms in recruitment and governance processes nationwide.  

Religious

August 31, 2025

Supreme Mufti Sheikh Mohammed Galabuzi Urges Parents to Ease Path to Marriage for Youths

 Kira Municipality – UgandaThe Supreme Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Mohammed Galabuzi, has called upon Muslim parents to create a supportive environment that allows their grown-up children to enter into holy marriage without unnecessary burdens.Speaking during a religious function at Kimwanyi Primary School in Kira Municipality, where Sheikh Dauda Wasajja organized prayers for his grown-up twins, Wasswa and Nakato, Sheikh Galabuzi emphasized that marriage is a blessing from Allah and should not be hindered by excessive demands. At the same event, Nakato formally entered into the Islamic holy matrimony, introducing her in-laws in a colorful ceremony where they presented numerous gifts to the family.  The Supreme Mufti urged parents not to make the marriage process difficult for young adults by demanding material possessions they cannot afford at an early age. Instead, he encouraged families to focus on the spiritual and moral values of marriage, which form its true foundation.He also used the occasion to teach Islamic-based norms, such as when nails should be trimmed and the proper way to perform religious rituals after the birth of children.  Furthermore, Sheikh Galabuzi challenged Muslim mothers to reclaim their central role in supervising their households—overseeing husbands, children, and family affairs—instead of leaving such responsibilities entirely to housemaids. “On news and social media, marriage is often portrayed as a burden or something negative. I stand here today to remind Muslim families that marriage is full of goodness, blessings, and joy. We should speak about its beauty and not only its challenges,” Sheikh Galabuzi said. The Mufti also commended the Muslim leadership in Kira, especially Sheikh Dauda Wasajja and the entire Twaleh community, for their active role in advancing the faith. He praised their commitment to women’s empowerment, support for the needy, mosque construction, and other community-driven initiatives.In his remarks, Sheikh Wasajja expressed gratitude for the Mufti’s guidance and lauded the support from the Kibuli Muslim Supreme Council. The event also featured the Public Relations Officer of Kira Municipality Twaleh, who doubles as Personal Assistant to Hon. Dr. John Chrysestom Muyingo, Minister of State for Higher Education. He reminded parents to raise children on strong religious foundations while ensuring they attain quality education.  “Parents must be exemplary in what they preach to their children. Religious values, combined with education, will shape them into responsible and successful citizens,” he noted.The colorful ceremony not only celebrated family and faith but also reinforced the importance of nurturing a generation grounded in Islamic principles, strong marriages, and community development.

Political

August 27, 2025

Anita Among Dominates Race for NRM 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female) Seat

 Kampala, Uganda — Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among has taken a commanding lead in the race for the position of NRM 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female), securing overwhelming support across several districts and regions against her main challenger, former Speaker Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga. Preliminary results from district voting updates indicate that Anita Among has consistently outperformed Kadaga, with landslide victories in key areas. In Kaliro District, Among secured 75 votes against Kadaga’s 7, while in Buyende District she received 69 votes compared to Kadaga’s 9. The trend continued in Kapelebyong, where Among bagged 70 votes, leaving Kadaga with none. Among also recorded strong results in Serere District with 67 votes against Kadaga’s 0, and in Bukedea District, where she amassed a remarkable 91 votes, while Kadaga again scored none. The most decisive results so far came from the Rwenzori/Tooro region, where Among polled an astounding 1,074 votes against Kadaga’s mere 6, cementing her dominance in the contest. In Bugweri District, Among won convincingly with 147 votes, while Kadaga managed 17. She also emerged victorious in Bugiri District with 96 votes compared to Kadaga’s 19, and in Iganga District, where she narrowly led with 58 votes to Kadaga’s 39.However, Kadaga still showed resilience in her home turf and nearby districts. She beat Among in Kamuli (119 to 16), Luuka (52 to 8), Namutumba (55 to 22), Mayuge (46 to 19), and Jinja City (44 to 31) as well as Jinja District (28 to 15). Despite these few wins, the wider picture points to an overwhelming advantage for Anita Among, whose victories in multiple districts and regions dwarf Kadaga’s localized gains. If the trend continues, Rt. Hon. Anita Among is set to secure the position of NRM 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female), a role that places her at the heart of the party’s top decision-making organ. The ongoing voting exercise across districts reflects shifting political dynamics within the ruling NRM, with Among positioning herself as a dominant force not only in Parliament but also within the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC). 

National

August 27, 2025

Ugandan Migrant Worker’s Ordeal in UAE Raises Calls for Justice and Government Action

 Kampala, Uganda – August 27th, 2025The case of Mr. Abdul Mutebi Abdul Swabul, a Ugandan migrant worker who suffered alleged torture and unlawful treatment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has brought renewed focus to the plight of Ugandan workers abroad and the urgent need for stronger government intervention and protection mechanisms.  Mr. Mutebi, 24, was legally employed in Abu Dhabi and held a valid residence permit through Wadi Aljoom for Electromechanical Equipment Installation and Maintenance. However, he was reportedly detained under suspicion of an undocumented status and subjected to harsh treatment, including electrocution torture by UAE immigration authorities, which left him critically ill and in a coma for over a year. In a controversial move, Mr. Mutebi was forcibly repatriated to Uganda while still on life support without medical discharge clearance or consent from his family. This repatriation involved coordinated efforts between UAE immigration officials, Ugandan officials, airline and ambulance service providers. Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, he was taken to Rayan Hospital in Kampala, where he remains in intensive care, still handcuffed and under police supervision. Disturbing reports indicate that the nurse who accompanied Mr. Mutebi during his transfer escaped investigation and returned to UAE without interrogation, prompting concerns about possible collusion or negligence by authorities on both sides.The Migrant Workers’ Voice, a rights advocacy group representing Mr. Mutebi’s family, has called on Ugandan government agencies including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Inspector General of Police, and Interpol Uganda to launch a comprehensive and independent investigation into the circumstances of his detention, treatment, and repatriation.  “We demand full accountability for all those involved in violating Mr. Mutebi’s basic human rights,” said Kayonde Abdallah, President of Migrant Workers’ Voice. “No Ugandan should suffer such inhumane treatment. This case exposes alarming gaps that must be urgently addressed to protect our migrant workers.” The group has also urged transparent disclosure of all medical records, police documentation, and transport arrangements related to Mr. Mutebi’s case, alongside ensuring that he receives appropriate medical care with family involvement going forward.Mr. Mutebi’s ordeal highlights wider challenges faced by Ugandan migrant workers who, despite lawfully seeking employment abroad, remain vulnerable to exploitation, neglect, and abuse often compounded by weak diplomatic support and enforcement of rights.The Ugandan government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the case. Meanwhile, advocacy groups are calling on authorities to strengthen protective policies and response mechanisms for migrant workers, including better regulation of recruitment agencies and improved consular assistance.  This tragic episode calls for urgent action if Uganda is to uphold the dignity and safety of its citizens working beyond its borders.For additional information, contact:Kayonde AbdallahPresident, The Migrant Workers’ Voice www.migrantworkersvoice.org