WE ALL BEAR THE RESPONSIBILITY TO FORGE THE UGANDAN NATION
Civil society in Uganda would like to express very deep concern on the worrisome events and riots that rocked Kampala City, its surbubs andsome neighbouring districts in September 2009.The riots sparked off after the Uganda Police force blocked a planned tour to Bugerere County in Kayunga district by the Katikiro of Buganda on Thursday, September 10th 2009 in preparation for a trip to the same area by His Highness the Kabaka of Buganda at Youth Day celebrations, exposed several pitfalls in our Country. What was initially seen as a simple act by Police to block the Katikiro of Buganda led to a cyclic and spontaneous uprising by sections of the citizenry in Kampala and sorrounding districts in response to what was considered unfair treatment to the Katikiro and by implication His Highness the Kabaka and his subjects.
The turn of event s thereafter was regrettable. The riots and excessive use of force by the state security agencies left over 18 Ugandans dead, scores more injured, massive destruction of property, bussineses and economic losses especially by innocent people, a breakdown in the rule of law and violations of human and civic rights of Ugandans. The turbulence also led to significant disruptions to the peace and stability in Kampala city and sorrounding districts. The events in September have also painted a negetive picture of Uganda in the international press, a reality that works to undermine the counry's international stand.
While calmness was restored a few days later, it is important we do not lose sight of the underlying problems our Nation Uganda faces, for which the city riots in September are only a symptom. The riots should not be narrowly interpreted as a clash between the Buganda kingdom and the Cenral Government; rather it should be seen as representing existing tensions in our society today which if approached in a strategic and inclusive manner can be ressolved. We believe that having a cultural identity does not neccessariry stand in a way of a Nation; it is possible to celebrate unity in our diversity.
THE UNDERLYING PROBLEM
Civil society observes that what is present day Uganda is a conglomeration of diverse peoples.
