Outspoken political analyst Prof. Sabiti Makara has praised the appointment of Henry Musasizi as Uganda’s Minister of Finance, describing him as a shrewd and strategic politician from the Kigezi sub-region.
According to Makara, Musasizi is highly skilled in politics and difficult for opponents to outmaneuver because of his ability to navigate complex situations effectively.
Makara made the remarks following President Yoweri Museveni’s cabinet reshuffle announced on Tuesday, in which Musasizi was elevated from State Minister of Finance to the position of Minister of Finance.
"President Museveni rarely makes mistakes. Minister Musasizi is someone you cannot easily beat at his own game because he knows exactly what to do," Makara said.
He noted that during his tenure as State Minister, Musasizi worked quietly but efficiently, ensuring that operations within the Ministry of Finance ran smoothly and according to plan.
Makara also credited him with playing a significant role in negotiations involving international financial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as well as matters concerning Uganda’s financial markets.
"Minister Musasizi and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance have been very active in ensuring that things work well within the ministry. I believe President Museveni must be very pleased with these two gentlemen. The economy is growing at 6.3 percent, which is a very positive development," Makara stated.
He further expressed optimism about Uganda’s economic prospects, particularly with the anticipated commencement of oil production.
"Once oil production begins, as I understand it will very soon, the rate of economic growth is likely to double. If that happens, a lot of credit will go to these young leaders who are steering the Ministry of Finance," Makara said.
Makara added that Musasizi had earned the promotion and was fully deserving of the appointment as Uganda’s Minister of Finance.