Arcadia Foundation

Newsvision online reports that Ugandan President Museveni has made great strides to give additional districts their say. Mr. Museveni promised to dole out more power, developing a “big political post,” which would finally directly reflect the largely unrepresented Gulu district. The Gulu district has unfortunately gone unrecognized in Museveni’s administration for some time but promises have now been made for better representation IF the district’s citizenry vote for the NRM in the coming general election in 2011.

In actuality the district has had representatives, however, their votes largely go unnoticed when they haven’t voted for one of Mr. Museveni’s movements, which often progress with great support. Betty Bigombe, President of the Arcadia Foundation in fact served on the cabinet representing Gulu. Representatives of Gulu that sometimes “go against the grain” have run the risk of losing their support frequently. Mr. Museveni however stated he’s “looking forward to giving you (Gulu) a big political post, but you have to vote wisely”.

Mr. Museveni is mobilizing his campaign throughout the countryside, rallying support for the NRM. His platforms include adult literacy, the economy, but in particular rebuilding infrastructure. Referencing Gulu, Mr. Museveni gives particular care to mention that no matter how much of anything is present… schools, roads, and the like; there will still be extreme poverty despite how peaceful they are by comparison to other districts. He clearly doesn’t want to give unrealistic expectations.

Mr. Museveni’s unprecedented outreach to Gulu, in citing the money he’s specifically spent there previously should not go unnoticed. Such an outreach might be the result of political necessity to branch out and compete with massing rivals amidst the LRA conflict. With an Anti-Homosexuality bill placing his administration under heavy scrutiny, Museveni the time is ripe for a sincere, transparent agenda.

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