While speaking in an interview on BBC, the NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi made startling comments regarding the recently passed Anti-homosexuality law in Uganda. He said that the law was made by President Museveni to target him and the opposition. Furthermore, he also accused his NUP MPs of collaborating with President Museveni to pass this law.
Bobi Wine attempted to distance himself from his past stance on homosexuality, claiming personal growth and newfound respect for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation. He asserted that his ongoing conflict with Gen Museveni revolved around this very law. However, a closer examination raises crucial questions about the consistency and authenticity of his leadership.
Firstly, Bobi Wine’s assertion that the law was solely Museveni’s creation disregards the overwhelming support it garnered from the Ugandan population. It was not merely a political maneuver but a reflection of public sentiment. Certainly If Gen Museveni needs any law or means to curtail political freedoms, he has enough laws and infrastructure at his disposal!
Secondly, claiming that his MPs were working with Gen Museveni was a big insult that a leader would make to his people. If indeed the opposition MPs connived with Gen Museveni to make law that is intended to curtail their own freedoms, then it casts doubt on the credibility and integrity of not only his party but also his own leadership!
Additionally, if indeed Bobi Wine is firm on his stance as a gay rights defender, then why didn’t he advise his MPs before passing the law? How come he has never made any statement in public against the said law? His silence on such a crucial matter and his subsequent international statements raise questions about his priorities and leadership style. It begs the question: Is he a leader who guides his people or one who opportunistically panders to international donors?
Whereas Bobi Wine made these statements to appease the western community who have been funding him, it speaks to the level of maturity and quality of a leader that he is. If indeed he can make such a grand accusation against his own party leaders, if he can make such a huge pronouncement in support of homosexuality when he knows Ugandans don’t support it, there is no doubt that he would compromise the interest of the country in order to seek political power! But of what purpose would political power serve if it has mortgaged and compromised the sovereignty of one’s country? Any leader who seeks validation from external forces at the expense of national interests jeopardizes the well-being of the very people they claim to represent.
In conclusion, Africa needs leaders with steadfast principles, leaders who defend the values and beliefs of their people rather than bending to external pressures. Bobi Wine’s shifting stance on the Anti-homosexuality law raises concerns about his commitment to the core values that should guide a leader in the best interest of the nation
The Parliament of Uganda which passed the Anti-homosexuality law, acted in the best interest of Ugandans and whoever challenges that decision in order to win western powers hearts is working against Uganda’s interests!
Muhimbise George
The author is a political analyst
muhimbiseg@gmail.com
