{UAH} M7-WHEN IS OTAFIRE'S FILE COMING OUT?

Otafiire calls for government tolerance of opposition

Gen. Otafiire (L) with generals Aronda Nyakayirima and Kale Kayihura at a recent function. File photo 

KAMPALA- Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Kahinda Otafiire has warned that unless national leaders learn to listen and accommodate divergent views, the nation could be destined for chaos.

The minister's comments at independence day celebrations in Namaliga, Luweero District on Wednesday come at a time when Uganda's opposition has protested the clampdown on their political activities by the police.

"Give some of these people space and listen to some of their ideas. Some of these people in the opposition have constructive ideas. It is also true that we can never have the same ideologies but learning to handle these challenges is a very important for leaders," he said.

The minster advised that "we also need to resolve problems as leaders or retire to give chance to other people because you cannot complete everything."

He said leaders are supposed to work for the people but many times think that they will accomplish every task before them, which is impossible.

"Why should you continue making mistakes? We are responsible for whatever has happened in Uganda for the last 51 years, this is because we are not learning from our mistakes" Gen Otafiire said.

It is not clear if the minister, reputed for his colourful language, was directing his comments at any particular leader, or even the President who has been in office for 27 years.

His official host in the district was, however, more direct in his speech as he referred to the 'Sejusa Affair'.

Nadduli's take on Sejusa
The Luwero District chairperson, Hajj Abdul Nadduli, observed that Gen David Sejusa, the former coordinator of intelligence services, now in London exile, must be treated with caution.

Hajj Nadduli asked senior ruling party leaders and military officers to go slow while handling the General.
"The army Generals should not just think that Sejusa is useless and should not be given time and a chance. We should do whatever is possible to bring Gen Sejusa back because I know who Sejusa is. Look at the Bible story about the Prodigal son," he said.

Gen Sejusa has been declared a wanted man by the army which says he faces possible treason charges. His troubles emerged after he wrote to the Internal Security Organisation asking for an investigation into reports of a plot to assassinate senior government officials.

The General has since issued several statements declaring a bid to liberate the country from what he says is a lawless regime.

Presidential Press Secretary, Tamale Mirundi yesterday said the law is taking its course in the matter.
"Nobody is harassing Sejusa. Sejusa wanted to retire from the army a long time but the President rehabilitated him like many others. Nadduli should remember the Gavi fund, where close relatives of the President where involved? And so it is the law being applied," Mirundi said.

Mr Tamale also took a dig at the Luwero District leader, saying: "Nadduli is an old man and this is not the bush but rather government."

Mr Tamale said the President listens, a reason he allowed a return to multiparty politics. "The President is listening and that is why there was restoration of parties and peace talks with Joseph Kony."

editorial@ug.nationmedia.com

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H.OGWAPITI
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"To announce that there must be no criticism of the president, or that  we are to stand by the president right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic  and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public."
---Theodore Roosevelt