Bobi Wine vehemently responded to recent reports indicating that President Yoweri Museveni has proposed pardoning certain opposition figures and members accused of orchestrating youth-led protests involving burning car tires on roads.
During a press briefing, Museveni expressed willingness to pardon only the detained youths involved in the protests, excluding those implicated in more serious criminal activities.
Asserting the National Unity Platform’s (NUP) stance, Bobi Wine emphasized that they were not petitioning for clemency from the president as their members hadn’t committed any crimes.
“We advocate for the liberation of all political detainees… we don’t plead with Museveni for our people’s liberation,” Bobi Wine declared.
Addressing Museveni’s loyalists, he reminded them that the president isn’t above the law but rather subject to it.
“We don’t plead for our rights; we assert them, bestowed by God and enshrined in the constitution,” he added.
Museveni made this declaration during the inauguration of six newly appointed ministers, following their vetting and approval by the parliamentary Appointments Committee.
In response to a plea from Balaam Barugahara, the new Minister of State for Children and Youth Affairs, Museveni hinted at reconsidering cases involving individuals engaged in tire burning and assault.
However, he clarified that individuals accused of severe crimes such as murder would face challenges in securing release.
Moreover, Museveni emphasized that any potential release would be contingent upon the suspects pledging to abstain from further criminal activities, considering the government’s substantial investment in infrastructure and safeguarding Ugandan lives.
The swearing-in ceremony, overseen by Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet, Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, was attended by President Museveni.
Among the newly appointed ministers are Hon. Lillian Aber, tasked with Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugee Affairs, Dr. Kenneth Omona for Northern Uganda, and Hon. Florence Wamala Nambozo for Karamoja Affairs.
Additionally, Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro assumes the role of Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals), Gen. Wilson Mbasu Mbadi for Trade, and Hon. Balaam Barugahara as Minister of State for Youth and Children.
