Nakaseke South Member of Parliament, Paulson Luttamaguzi Ssemakula, has reaffirmed his commitment to speaking out against wrongdoing in government, stressing that leadership should be defined by accountability, strong institutions, and tangible improvements in citizens’ lives.
Speaking during Sanyuka One on One on Thursday, Luttamaguzi, an outspoken legislator and staunch member of the National Unity Platform (NUP), said his parliamentary role obliges him to challenge failures wherever they occur.
“Because I am part of this government and Parliament, I have a duty to speak out when things go wrong. Objectivity does not mean silence in the face of wrongdoing,” he said.
He emphasised that constructive criticism should not be mistaken for opposition to development. While acknowledging the importance of industrialisation, Luttamaguzi warned that infrastructure and factories alone cannot guarantee improved livelihoods.
“We shouldn’t oppose development. Factories are useful, but they won’t automatically improve our lives,” he said, adding that progress must be supported by sound policies and inclusive systems that benefit ordinary citizens.
Luttamaguzi highlighted the need for leadership that prioritises institution-building over personal gain, arguing that sustainable progress depends on systems rather than individuals.
“A leader sets up the systems, and then the systems work for them. What you do while in power is what truly defines you,” he said.
While recognising some tangible achievements of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, he expressed concern over the pace of progress.
“There are definitely some achievements by the government that I can appreciate. However, in 40 years, we should have made more progress,” he said.
Luttamaguzi also criticised what he described as systemic corruption and misuse of public funds by officials, alleging that resources meant for development are often diverted by powerful individuals.
“The funds are allocated, but they end up in the hands of ‘vampires’—people so powerful they consume these resources for themselves,” he said.