Winnie Kiiza: Recent NRM Cadre Appointments to EC Signal President Museveni’s Determination
In a striking revelation, seasoned politician Winnie Kiiza has voiced her concerns over the recent appointments within the Electoral Commission (EC).
The former Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, who is also a member of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), suggested that the appointment of National Resistance Movement (NRM) members to oversee election governance is a clear indication of President Museveni’s determination to consolidate his power.
A Question of Independence
Many have raised alarm bells over the lack of independence and neutrality within the EC, especially with the recent appointments of NRM members to key positions. Kiiza emphasized the importance of having an impartial electoral body to ensure free and fair elections in Uganda.
She expressed her concerns that the appointments may lead to bias in favor of the ruling party, compromising the integrity of the electoral process and ultimately undermining democracy in the country.
Impact on Ugandans
For the people of Uganda, these appointments may raise doubts about the transparency of future elections and erode trust in the electoral system. The concentration of power within the ruling party could further marginalize opposition voices and limit the democratic space in the country.
Global Implications
On a larger scale, the consolidation of power by President Museveni through partisan appointments to the EC could set a dangerous precedent for other countries in the region facing similar challenges to their democratic processes. The lack of accountability and transparency in Uganda’s electoral governance may embolden authoritarian tendencies in other nations, posing a threat to democracy worldwide.
Conclusion
It is essential for the international community to closely monitor the developments in Uganda and hold its leaders accountable for upholding democratic principles. The recent appointments to the Electoral Commission signal a concerning trend towards consolidating power and undermining the credibility of electoral processes. As Winnie Kiiza rightly points out, the independence of the EC is crucial for ensuring free and fair elections and preserving democracy in Uganda and beyond.
