The minister of state for Youth, Balaam Barugahara has urged the Kampala lord mayor-elect, Ronald Balimwezo, to work closely with President Museveni to accelerate the development of the city.
Barugahara said Kampala does not need a mayor who opposes every initiative from the central government purely on the basis of political affiliation, but one who prioritises cooperation for the good of the city.
The two met at Lubaga Miracle Centre Cathedral, where they had gone to give thanks, Barugahara for Museveni’s election victory and Balimwezo for his own.
He said Museveni is a tolerant and forgiving leader who would be willing to support Balimwezo’s efforts if approached.
“I respect the fact that you come from a different political party from the ruling party, but we should put partisan politics aside and work together to make Kampala a world-class city,” Barugahara told Balimwezo.
Barugahara urged those who lost in the elections, particularly members of the opposition, to accept the results and move on, or seek redress through the courts of law if dissatisfied. [WATCH VIDEO]
“The election period in Uganda is always highly emotional, but we cannot allow these emotions to destroy the nation President Museveni has built over his 40 years in leadership,” he said.
Balimwezo thanked Ugandans, particularly residents of the capital, for entrusting him with the mandate and pledged to transform the city.
“I am a qualified civil engineer and, as my campaign slogan stated, Kampala needs an engineer to fix the poor roads, drainage system and other infrastructure challenges,” he said.
Balimwezo said he would work with all stakeholders who share his vision for Kampala and appealed to the government to give him the space to implement development initiatives.
However, he condemned the attack on the home of National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, aka Bobi Wine, and called for peace and tolerance.
Pastor Robert Kayanja of Lubaga Miracle Centre, called on leaders to work together regardless of political affiliation.
“We must put our political differences aside and work together to make Uganda better,” Kayanja said.
He also condemned the attack on Kyagulanyi’s home, suggesting that a few elements within the security forces could be acting to portray the government negatively.
“Uganda has come from far and still has a long way to go. We must strongly condemn anyone working to destroy our country,” Kayanja said.
He urged political leaders to preach tolerance, forgiveness and acceptance, noting that Uganda’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.
“We are a diverse nation and must work together irrespective of political affiliation, tribe, region or nationality,” he said.
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