Summary:
- Dr. Ian Clarke’s viral letter expresses concerns about fiscal irresponsibility among Kampala’s parliamentarians, emphasizing the disconnect between elites and citizens. Ugandan philosopher Dr. Mwalimu Musheshe urges a visionary approach. Author Joseph Odoi calls for citizen accountability, political engagement, and governance restructuring to shape a brighter future for Uganda through collective effort.
Recently, I stumbled upon a letter spreading rapidly on social media, much like a wildfire. The letter is titled “Will the new year bring any change to Kampala?” and is authored by the senior citizen, Dr. Ian Clarke.
In this letter, Ian Clarke raises valid concerns about the state of Kampala and the apparent lack of fiscal responsibility by our parliamentarians.
The allocation of extravagant allowances for themselves and unnecessary expenditures not only raises eyebrows but also highlights a disconnect between the political elites and the ordinary citizens.
It is disheartening to witness the plight of the common people as they struggle through dilapidated roads while their taxes fund lavish lifestyles.
However, it is natural for us to orbit around the bad things happening in our nation. Focusing solely on the problems at hand without a visionary approach to life where we focus on what we truly want is appalling according to Ugandan philosopher Dr. Mwalimu Musheshe, the Vice Chancellor of African Rural University.
The question we should ask in January for Kampala and Uganda is what do we want to create?
How do we get there? After getting there, what next?
Let us not be driven by the current state of affairs to predict doom for Uganda, but instead let us ponder what can be done to shape a brighter future for our beloved country.
To move towards such a future, we must hold our representatives accountable for their actions. We need attentive and engaged citizens who actively participate in the political process, demanding transparency, and fiscal discipline. Our voices must be raised, not only during times of crisis but consistently, to ensure that elected officials and civil servants fulfill the social contract they have with the people.
Additionally, we must advocate for a restructuring of governance in Kampala to ensure that there is effective decision-making and accountability. The apathy demonstrated by the Lord Mayor, divisional mayors, and city councilors is deeply concerning.
It is imperative that these leaders rise to the occasion and passionately champion the cause of their constituents.
Similarly, the Executive Director and the Ministers for Kampala must work tirelessly to prioritize the needs of the city and allocate resources accordingly.
The responsibility lies not only with our elected officials but with each and every citizen. We must actively participate in the democratic process, engage in meaningful dialogue, and advocate for reforms that will benefit all Ugandans.
Lastly, it is also essential for us to recognise that Uganda’s progress relies on a collective effort that is to say multi-sectoral approach to development.
The author Joseph Odoi is a multi-disciplinary communication expert
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