Leaders of Ugandans living abroad have asked President Yoweri Museveni to confirm four ministers-designate whose swearing-in was delayed over a dual and multiple citizenship controversy.
The request was made by leaders under the Confederation of Uganda Diaspora Associations Limited. In a June 9 letter to President Museveni, seen by this reporter, the diaspora representatives said the nominees would bring valuable international experience to government.
They argued that their appointment would help ensure that issues affecting Ugandans abroad receive greater attention in national decision-making.
“Their presence in government means that Diaspora perspectives will be part of national policy formulation and priority-setting, ensuring that millions of Ugandan citizens living and contributing from outside the country are not overlooked in the decisions that shape our shared future,” the letter reads.
Four Nominees Await Museveni’s Decision
The four ministers-designate missed their oath of allegiance and oath of minister on Monday.
They include Ambassador Adonia Ayebare, the Foreign Affairs Minister-designate, and Mr Calvin Echodu, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs-designate in charge of International Affairs.
Others are Ms Shartsi Kutesa Musherure, the Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development-designate in charge of Microfinance, and Dr Lawrence Muganga, the Minister of State for Internal Affairs-designate.
President Museveni is expected to make a final decision after receiving an advisory report from the Ministry of Public Service on their eligibility to hold Cabinet office.
Diaspora Leaders Defend Appointments
The diaspora leaders said the inclusion of Ugandans with international exposure carries major symbolic and practical value.
They said the appointments recognise the role of Ugandans abroad in national development. They also said the move signals that the diaspora remains an important stakeholder in Uganda’s future.
“Your Excellency’s decision to appoint distinguished members of the Diaspora to senior ministerial office is a moment of great significance to Ugandans abroad, which is a clear signal that the Diaspora is a valued stakeholder in the service of our nation,” the letter reads.
Legal Question Over Dual Citizenship
Uganda allows dual citizenship. However, Article 15(7) of the Constitution gives Parliament powers to restrict dual citizens from holding some public offices.
The Uganda Citizenship and Immigration Control (Amendment) Act of 2009 lists several sensitive state positions that dual citizens may not occupy.
The Fifth Schedule to the Act specifically cites the offices of “Cabinet Minister and other Ministers”.
Association Presidents Sign Petition
The letter was signed by 12 association presidents representing Ugandan diaspora communities in different regions.
They include Murema Murinzi Boaz of the Federation of Ugandans in Germany, Lambert Etibot from the North America Associations, and Dr Manoj Joshimbe from the Europe/United Kingdom Associations.
Other signatories are Ms Bridget Akanga from the Uganda Diaspora Empowerment Network Sweden, Ms Justus Mirembe from the National Alliance of Ugandan Canadian Associations, and Mr Ryan Aliguma Saul from the Ugandan Community in Qatar.
The rest are Mr Moses Kibombo Ssentongo from the Confederation of Ugandans in Southern Africa, Mr Mustafa Ndugwa from the Association of Ugandans in the UAE, Mr Stephen Musana from Ugandans in Czech Republic, and Mr Tonny Muwanga from Ugandans in Belgium.
Ricky Papa Baguma signed on behalf of the Ugandan community in China, while Fr David Niwagaba signed for the Ugandan community in Malawi.
