Erias Lukwago, Mabirizi are busybodies speaking hogwash about Uganda hosting AFCON , says Baryomunsi

The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi has described as busybodies, lawyer Male Mabirizi and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago over their comments on Uganda and East Africa winning the bid to host the 2027 edition of the African Nations Cup.

Responding to a question about the duo’s comments, Baryomunsi said these are seeking relevance.

“In Greek history, there was a man called Herostratus who was a young man who set fire on a cathedral(the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus) just to become famous. That is the same case with Mabirizi. He wants to do controversial things so that he is discussed,” Baryomunsi said.

“For my friend the Lord Mayor wants attention of the media. He is the mayor of the city but what has he done for Kampala for the years he has been leading it? He started as an MP then became a mayor. He should be telling Ugandans what he has done ever since they gave him their votes. Let him show the facilities he has developed.”

Continental football governing body, CAF last week announced East Africa as winners of the bid to host the African Nations Cup.

The development has since generated debate and mixed reaction, especially on social media.

Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago recently said the ruling NRM government wants to use the 2027 AFCON finals to get political mileage ahead of the 2026 general election.

In a similar manner, controversial lawyer, Male Mabirizi wrote to CAF asking the continental football governing body to exclude Uganda from hosting the most prestigious football tournament on the continent.

“I therefore request that you reverse the decision so Uganda is excluded from organizing the 2027 African Cup of Nations. As a federation, you are required to stand with Ugandans during this dictatorship and despotic turmoil,” Mabirizi said in his petition.

Speaking on Tuesday, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance stung the two whom he said should use their time to do things that develop them and the country at large, other than seeking cheap popularity.

“Mabirizi can write as many as a thousand letters but will amount to nothing. The team did assessment and considered us to be able to host AFCON. Some people critique and make comments for the sake of being covered by the media. The statements by Mabirizi and Lord Mayor are just hogwash that Ugandans should not waste their time on,” he said.