Magyezi urges youth to credit Museveni
The Minister of Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, has called on the youth to use International Youth Day as an opportunity to recognize President Museveni for the opportunities he has created for them.
Mr Magyezi made these remarks ahead of International Youth Day, observed on August 12, a day dedicated to celebrating the significant contributions and efforts of young people in shaping our future.
This year’s theme, “Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” emphasizes the vital role youth play in advancing social, economic, and environmental progress globally.
Magyezi also highlighted President Museveni’s close relationship with young people, noting that the President often affectionately refers to them as “Bazukulu” (grandchildren).
“President Museveni is one of the strongest allies of the youth in East Africa. He frequently refers to them as ‘Bazukulu’ and, in his addresses, often mentions the opportunities created under the NRM government in areas like education, health, and immunization. This Youth Day should be an occasion to credit the President for the good work done in providing opportunities for the youth,” Magyezi said.
However, Magyezi’s remarks come at a time when many young people are expressing discontent on social media over the President’s use of the term “Bazukulu.”
They argue that this label trivializes their demands for better service delivery and reinforces a dynamic where respect is expected from the youth without space for critique of the decisions made by their elders.
Recently, human rights lawyer Nicholas Opiyo criticized the use of the term “Bazukulu” by President Museveni, stating that it seeks to redefine the relationship between citizens and the State in a patronizing and condescending manner.
“When they refer to us as ‘our children’ or ‘Bazukulu,’ they are attempting to alter our relationship with the State. We are all citizens, equal in our rights and responsibilities, particularly when it comes to discussions on governance,” Opiyo wrote on social media.
He condemned the practice as not only patronizing but also illegal and disingenuous.
“It is patronizing and frankly condescending to consider citizens as one would their children or grandchildren. Altering our relationship with those in power or with other citizens is both illegal and insincere. We must all reject this,” he added.
Opiyo called on Ugandans to assert their rights as citizens, emphasizing that public officials, whether elected or appointed, are servants of the people and should act in the public interest.
