Uganda North American Association Trustees under intense scrutiny over Elections

In a stunning turn of events, the Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Ugandan North American Association (UNAA) has come under intense scrutiny and criticism after firing opposition-leaning members of the electoral commission. These actions have sparked outrage among UNAA members and exposed blatant violations of the organization’s constitution.

Article 9.2 of the UNAA constitution explicitly states that the electoral commission is an independent body, stripped of any interference from the BOT.

This provision was put in place to ensure fair and unbiased elections, safeguarding the principles of democracy within the association. However, the recent actions of the BOT have completely disregarded this constitutional safeguard.

The constitution further dictates that the appointment of the vice chairperson and the secretary of the electoral commission is the sole responsibility of the commission itself. The commissioners hold the authority to elect these positions internally, without any interference from the BOT.

Astonishingly, the BOT, led by Chairman Ronald Kabaale, has overstepped its boundaries by terminating Kriss Namakola, a member of the opposition party NUP, who held the position of vice chairman.

Such a flagrant violation of the constitution by the very person entrusted to uphold it is deeply concerning.
UNAA members have rallied behind the violated constitution and are demanding the immediate resignation of Mr. Kabaale and the chairperson of the electoral commission, Florence Bazanye.

The actions of the BOT have not only undermined the integrity of the electoral process but have also eroded the trust of the association’s members.
Adding to the mounting controversy, Mr. Kabaale appointed Aisha Kasule as the secretary of the electoral commission.

What makes this appointment alarming is that Aisha Kasule is the wife of Timothy Nyonjo, who serves as the campaign manager for Lambert Etibort, a candidate running for the presidency of UNAA. This blatant conflict of interest raises serious doubts about the impartiality and fairness of the electoral process.

Furthermore, Lambert Etibort currently holds the position of secretary general of UNAA, even while actively campaigning for the presidency. This dual role poses a clear conflict of interest, compromising the neutrality and integrity of the association’s leadership.

UNAA, as an organization representing the Ugandan diaspora, has a duty to uphold the principles of democracy, transparency, and fairness.

The recent actions by the BOT have not only violated the constitutional rights of its members but have also tarnished the reputation of the association.

It is imperative that those responsible for these violations be held accountable and steps be taken to restore the trust and confidence of UNAA members in the electoral process.

As the voices of UNAA members grow louder, the demand for the resignation of Mr. Kabaale and the chairperson of the electoral commission becomes more urgent.

It is a critical moment for the association to reassess its commitment to democratic principles and ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted in a transparent and impartial manner.

Only then can UNAA move forward and reclaim its standing as an organization that truly represents the aspirations and values of its members.