The Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Dr. Balaam Ateenyi Barugahara, has implored the youth not to join the demonstration scheduled to take place on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, coded “Match2Parliament.”
Minister Barugahara made the call on Sunday, July 21, 2024, on his social media handle X, after the presidential address on Saturday, July 20, 2024, when President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni asked the youth to stay away from violent demonstrations on the streets.
He urged the youth to participate in rallies that support a country free of corruption and to have constructive, nonviolent conversations rather than staged protests.
“I encourage young people to engage in peaceful and constructive dialogue. Instead of demonstrations, consider participating in rallies that promote a corruption-free nation. It’s essential to present clear demands to the relevant authorities. Let’s promote accountability, transparency, and patriotism. Additionally, individuals with government contracts should ensure they deliver on their commitments and refund any funds for failed or cancelled projects,” he said.
Additionally, the minister urged young people to make a memorandum and submit it to President Museveni, along with a couple of their leaders, and promised to schedule a meeting to hear their opinions, ideas, and what is affecting them.
He, however, asked the leaders to be receptive to hearing the youth’s issues and concerns and take appropriate action because it is their responsibility to be accountable.
President Museveni offered the Kololo Independent Grounds for the corruption-free rally, which can take place from morning to evening.
The march spearheaded by some youthful Ugandans hit social media, demanding an end to corruption in government. However, during his national address, President Museveni warned protesters that they will be playing with fire if they press ahead with the plans to stage an anti-corruption march to parliament.
