H.E President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
Kyankwanzi, Uganda》Amolatar District has recently found itself at the center of a growing political debate, following statements by some voters reportedly dismissing a candidate, Ongia, on the basis of age.
The remarks-framed around “not electing an old man”-have sparked concern among leaders and observers, who warn that such rhetoric risks fueling sectarian tendencies and undermining democratic values.
The controversy comes at a time when national attention is focused on the ongoing retreat at the National Leadership Institute Kyankwanzi, where President has been addressing leaders on the dangers of identity-based politics.
During his address, President Museveni strongly cautioned against all forms of sectarianism-whether based on tribe, religion, age, or social background-emphasizing that such divisions have historically hindered Uganda’s progress.
He urged leaders to promote unity, merit, and patriotism, stressing that leadership should be judged on competence, ideology, and commitment to national development rather than personal attributes such as age.
Museveni noted that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) was founded on principles that reject sectarian politics, and warned that any resurgence of such tendencies at local levels threatens to reverse the country’s gains in stability and cohesion.
In Amolatar, the emerging narrative around Ongia’s candidacy has raised fears that voters may be drifting away from issue-based politics. Critics argue that dismissing a candidate purely on age is not only discriminatory but also mirrors the very sectarian attitudes that national leaders are urging Ugandans to abandon.
Local political analysts suggest that such sentiments could partly explain why the district has struggled to secure stronger representation and influence at key national platforms like Kyankwanzi, where strategic political direction and ideological grounding are shaped.
Leaders and stakeholders are now calling for a shift toward mature, issue-driven political engagement. They emphasize the need for voters to evaluate candidates based on their track record, vision, and ability to deliver services rather than resorting to divisive narratives.
Ultimately, the unfolding debate in Amolatar presents a critical test for both voters and leaders. Whether the district embraces inclusive politics or succumbs to divisive rhetoric may determine not only its local political trajectory but also its relevance in national decision-making spaces.
The situation in Amolatar serves as a microcosm of a broader national challenge-balancing democratic choice with responsible political discourse. As the Kyankwanzi retreat continues, the message from the country’s top leadership remains clear: Uganda’s future depends on unity, inclusiveness, and a rejection of all forms of sectarianism.
As President Museveni reiterated in Kyankwanzi, the strength of Uganda lies in its unity-and that unity must be safeguarded at every level of leadership.
