Museveni Right to Oppose Institute in Memory of Idi Amin

By Jordan Ddungu

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni recently made a commendable decision by rejecting the request made by Kaps Fungaroo, the former Obongi West MP, to license an institute in memory of former President Idi Amin Dada. This article aims to support Museveni's stance, highlighting the atrocities committed by Amin's unconstitutional government, including the killing of Lango soldiers in Mbarara, the persecution of religious leaders like Ben Kiwanuka, and the detrimental impact on the Ugandan economy due to the expulsion of Indian entrepreneurs.

Idi Amin Dada's regime was an unconstitutional government that disregarded the rule of law and basic human rights. Amin's rise to power through a military coup in 1971 marked the beginning of a dark era for Uganda. His regime was tainted by widespread human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and forced disappearances. Rejecting the request for an institute in his memory is a necessary step to ensure that such a brutal legacy is not glorified or celebrated.

One of the most heinous acts committed by Amin's regime was the killing of Lango soldiers in Mbarara. Amin targeted soldiers from the Lango ethnic group, leading to the loss of innocent lives and exacerbating ethnic tensions within the country. By rejecting the request for an institute in Amin's memory, Museveni is sending a strong message that such acts of violence and discrimination will not be tolerated or honored.

Amin's regime also targeted religious leaders, with prominent figures like Ben Kiwanuka falling victim to his brutal regime. Kiwanuka, a respected lawyer and politician, was abducted, tortured, and eventually killed by Amin's henchmen. By rejecting the request for an institute in Amin's memory, Museveni is acknowledging the suffering endured by religious leaders and ensuring that their sacrifices are not overshadowed or forgotten.

Amin's decision to expel Indian entrepreneurs from Uganda had severe consequences for the country's economy. The expulsion of this skilled and industrious community resulted in the collapse of numerous businesses, leading to a significant decline in economic growth and development. Museveni's rejection of the request for an institute in Amin's memory demonstrates his commitment to fostering a conducive environment for economic growth and stability, free from the mistakes of the past.

In conclusion, President Museveni's decision to reject the request for an institute in memory of Idi Amin Dada is a commendable move that upholds the principles of justice, human rights, and economic progress. Amin's unconstitutional government, the killing of Lango soldiers, the persecution of religious leaders, and the expulsion of Indian entrepreneurs all highlight the dark legacy left behind by his regime.

The writer is a youth and good governance activist. Contact via Twitter @MrJordanposts.