Journalists urgued to lead the fight against political tribalism and sectarianism
With a media symposium held in Kanungu district, Dr. Sylivia Arinaitwe, Deputy managing Director of the National Water and sewerage Cooperation, urged journalists to take the lead in combating identity politics.
Her call to action was echoed by Dr. Jude Katerenga, president of Ugandans below 40 (UB40), a social mobilization movement under the NRM.
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The symposium, attended by journalists from the Kigezi sub-region, highlighted the dangers of sectarian politics, which have long plagued the region. Dr. Arinaitwe emphasized that identity politics not only divides people but also fuels insecurity, citing the devastating civil wars in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo as stark examples.
“Identity politics not only divides people, but also fuels insecurity. We have seen the devasting effects in Sudan and the Democratic. Let’s learn from these examples and promote unity instead. Dr. Arinaitwe states.
Dr. Arinaitwe implored journalists to refrain from providing a platform to agents of sectarianism, instead promoting unity and socio-economic transformation. She encouraged citizens to choose leaders based on merit and accomplishment, rather than identity or origin.
“We need to choose leaders based on merit and accomplishments identity or origin. Let’s focus on what unites us, not what divides us. Dr. Arinaitwe adds.
The symposium also focused on the government’s poverty alleviation programs, such as the Parish Development Model appealed to journalists to amplify these initiatives, while Naboth Niwagaba (hope radio) and Loyce Kiconco (KBS FM) called on government for more active engagement from the government in programming these programs.
Dr. Katerenga acknowledged the need for greater collaboration between the plans to hold similar symposium in all regions of Uganda, culminating in a national symposium.
“Journalists have the power to shape the narrative and promote unity. Let’s use this power wisely and work towards a more inclusive and prosperous society. Dr. Katerenga states.
This clarion call to the action undecides the critical role journalists play in shaping public discourse and promoting unity I the face of identity politics Will they raise to change.
