The National Economic Empowerment Dialogue (NEED) led by Joseph Kabuleta has urged Parliament to set aside regional and tribal biases, emphasising national unity and equitable policy-making.
Speaking to the media in Kampala,
NEED's national spokesperson, Moses Matovu, expressed concern over rising tribal divisions within Parliament, pointing to recent remarks by Speaker Anitah Annet Among.
He denounced the Speaker’s statements as fostering divisiveness, calling on members of Parliament to prioritise Uganda’s economic and social well-being.
“We urge MPs to unite for the sake of Ugandan citizens and the economy,” Matovu stated.
He also addressed the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) issue, cautioning against plans to dismantle the agency.
“Coffee is one of Uganda’s top exports, supporting families across the country. Eliminating the UCDA would be a blow to Uganda’s economic stability.”
Matovu highlighted NEED’s “Make Them Poor” campaign, pointing out how critical sectors like fishing and sugarcane production face excessive taxation, while other resources, such as gold, remain untaxed and benefit only a select few.
He warned against portraying coffee as a product exclusive to any tribe, stating, “Coffee is for all Ugandans; its success is for the entire nation, not one group.”
The spokesperson also called on Speaker Among to apologize for her recent remarks, urging her to demonstrate impartiality and unity.
NEED underscored that Parliament’s policies should reflect the collective interests of Ugandans, free from tribal bias.
Prince Joe Nakibinge Jjuuko, NEED’s National Organising Secretary, contextualised the issue within Uganda’s history, referring to past challenges where tribalism impeded governance.
Citing the Odoki report, he noted that Ugandans have repeatedly sought federal governance but faced resistance.
He pointed to the recent banana mosaic outbreak as a symbol of neglect for certain communities.
“We must recognise each region’s unique resources and potential,” Nakibinge said, urging the government to ensure equitable development for all.