Since the Presidential campaigns began, we have read contradicting statements on federalism from some of you. At first, we were delighted that all of you had finally recognised the merits of federalism as a form of governance for Uganda. During the initial stages of your campaign you promised that you will revisit the issue of federalism, and listen to, and address federalism demands in the context of all of Uganda, not just of Buganda.

We believe it is time for Ugandans to get an opportunity to meaningfully shape their economic destinies in a nation that at the same time honours our diversity in cultures and political history. Such reforms require giving serious consideration to federalism as an alternative to the failed tendencies of unitarism. We are prepared to engage fellow Ugandans in an open and inclusive dialogue on the merits of a federal system in Uganda.

Educate the population: It has been alleged that most Ugandans are ignorant of what their constitution says on federalism. As you move across the length and breadth of Uganda, you should endeavour to educate them on the merits of other forms of governance, particularly federalism, which you have all committed to revisit in the days after the election. We, federalists will do our part in articulating not only the merits of federalism, but on the kind of federalism we want for Uganda.

Ensure political legitimacy: Your efforts must be genuine and honest attempts to improve governance beyond the March 06, elections. We urge you to refrain from making sectarian and biased statements on federalism. Such statements are meant to manipulate voters for narrow political gains at the expense of national consensus. Federalist demands are legitimate and will continue to exist in Uganda. Such demands are not meant to divide Ugandans, but rather they are meant to unite them in the search for governance and democratic reforms. It would be tragic if in the heat of the campaign, you were to send confusing messages disparaging federalism, by manipulating certain groups of voters over others. Such tactics are likely to leave Ugandans more divided and cynical about the political process.

None of you individually or collectively can change the past, but you can change Uganda's future for the better. We remain steadfast that once Uganda's governance shortcomings are addressed through federalism, Uganda's true potential will be unleashed, since federalism will bring Ugandans into closer touch with their own government(s).

Yours sincerely,

Christine Nabukeera                                                    Fulgentius N. Lugemwa, Ph.D.
cnabukee@chat.carleton.ca                                          lugemwafn@yahoo.com
Interim Chairperson                                                    nterim secretary
For Advocacy                                                              For Advocacy

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