Youth from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party have launched a campaign calling for the amendment of the age limit.
The campaign dubbed “Gikwateko” literally meaning- touch it, is meant to counter an opposition pro-age limit lobby dubbed “togikwatako”, which is loosely translated as don’t touch it.
The campaign was launched amidst pomp and booze at Silverton Gardens in Rubaga, Kampala on Thursday. The youth also adopted yellow kerchiefs to contend with the opposition group that has branded with red bandanas.
They say the yellow bandanas signify peace and unity.
“We shall smooch it, and touch it,” the youth kept shouting in unison
“We are going to fight to amend it, if the opposition are so angry over this, then we shall even write our names in the constitution. Let those who made the constitution come out and speak, not these people who found it there,” a one Sserugo Karim said.
The NRM national vice chairperson for central region, Ibrahim Kitata said the campaign is aimed at calling for the amendment of the upper age limit cap.
“We wont allow anyone to intimidate us over this (age limit removal support), we shall ensure it is changed,” Kitata said.
Minister without Portfolio, Alhajji Abdul Naduli on his part condemned the chaotic scenes in Rukungiri District on Wednesday, saying they were uncalled for over such a matter.
“If it is the police that shot the person dead, then its regrettable but if the people stoned their fellow dead, it is worse,” he said.
Naduli accused Buganda Kingdom of failure to handle priorities but rather start politicking over the age limit proposal.
“This is the time for Mengo to speak about matters that affect Buganda, but they are wasting time with the age limit,” he said.
Museveni’s advisor on media issues, Tamale Mirundi asked the opposition not to waste time with the togikwatako campaign.
“The Constitution will be changed no matter what. Museveni is like the pope, and if we shall give him more time because it is us that vote for him. A thief does not tell you what padlock you should buy” he said.
He also warned members of the opposition who are threatening violence towards people supporting the removal of age limit that they will be dealt with harshly.
He said he will not hesitate to shoot or beat whoever dares to touch him.
