NRM Advisor Criticizes PDM Implementation, Vows to Help "Poor People on the Grassroot"

Hajjati Hadijah Namyalo, a senior advisor to the Ugandan president, has thrown a wrench into the government's Parish Development Model (PDM) program. While distributing self-help items in Rukiga district, Namyalo openly criticized the PDM's implementation, calling it a "total mess" riddled with bureaucracy that hinders its effectiveness.

PDM: A Good Idea, Flawed Execution

Namyalo acknowledged the program's potential but slammed its slow and bureaucratic processes. "Imagine it takes long for one to access the parish development model money," she remarked, questioning the program's ability to help those most in need. Her comments highlight concerns about the PDM's ability to deliver timely assistance to impoverished communities.

Empowering the People

In contrast to the PDM, Namyalo presented her office's initiative of distributing self-help items like hair dryers, sprayers, and sewing machines directly to the people. This approach aims to empower youth and women by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, bypassing the complexities of the PDM system.

Fighting for the Grassroots

Namyalo's visit to Rukiga wasn't without controversy. She revealed facing discouragement and even threats in the lead-up to the event. Her determination to reach out to "the poor person on the grassroots" suggests a potential rift within the ruling NRM party, with Namyalo advocating for a more direct approach to poverty alleviation.

Sticking to the Mission

Dr. Sylivia Arinetwe, a Deputy Director from the National Water and Sewerage Cooperation, emphasized the core values of the NRM party – patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy. While seemingly unrelated to Namyalo's critique, Arinetwe's remarks could be interpreted as a call for party unity despite any internal disagreements.

The Show Must Go On

Despite the controversy, the event concluded with a performance by Ugandan musician Gravity Omutujju. This seemingly lighthearted ending underscores the complex interplay between politics, development initiatives, and the desire to connect with the Ugandan people.

Uncertain Future

Namyalo's outspoken criticism of the PDM raises questions about the program's future. Whether her concerns will be addressed or if alternative initiatives like hers will take center stage remains to be seen. One thing is clear – the fight against poverty in Uganda has taken a new turn, with a senior advisor potentially charting a new course for development efforts.