Our MPs [or at least many of them] hold distinguished records as lacking the capacity for expressing independent views on any issue save for the most mundane before parliament. Moreover, the question of federalism should not be exposed to ignorant posturing, which many MPs are wont to do on many questions of national importance, a tendency that has led to debates on critical issues having outcomes that can only be described as inimical to the long-term interests of the country. The UCB saga to which I refer cursorily below, is a case in point.

I do not believe that a serious discussion of the viability of federalism necessarily calls for the participation of every Tom, Dick and Harriet. I propose a small group of  independent-minded, knowledgeable and wise men and women, quietly deliberating behind the scenes. I make this proposal on the grounds that an overly large forum would only lend itself to cacophony rather than harmony. You will note that in the following paragraphs this small group gives way to wider constellations of participants.

In my opinion these sages could be individuals – whether foreign and/or Ugandan should be of no consequence – chosen by a multi-partisan committee inclusive of all significant political forces in the country. The role of this committee should stretch no farther than simply the selection and final endorsement of the said sages. Thereafter, it should disband.