By Spy Uganda
Kampala, Entebbe: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni hosted the Uganda Indian Community to a “Diwali” dinner celebration last evening at State House, Entebbe.
Diwali is an Indian festival that symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness among Indian community faiths in India; Hindus, Sikhs, Jain’s, Muslims and some Buddhists and has been hosted in Uganda for several years.
Speaking to this community that was spearheaded by mogul Sudhir Ruparelia, Museveni first commended it for its contribution to the economic development of the country and appealed to them to encourage more people to exploit the vast investment opportunities here.
“Thank you so much for your contribution to the economic development of the country. Bring more business people for investments here. Encourage more people to come for tourism also,” he said.
Museveni condemned President Iddi Amin’s 1972 act of expelling Indians from Uganda saying that there was no clear reason for that barbaric act.
He noted, “There was no legitimate reason to expel the Indians. Idi Amin’s act was rubbish. Those people did not understand the theoretical and practical mistake made that had an element of chauvinism.”
Infact, Museveni assured these Indians that they are now fully recognized among the Ugandan tribes.
“Actually, sociologically speaking, the Indians already have a well-known tribe like the known groups; Bazungu, Bahalabu, Chinese except that it should be considered constitutionally. The Indians are already part of Uganda society,” he noted.
Museveni also assured them that government will give its support come 2022 when the Indian community will be commemorating 100 years since they arrived in the country.
Watch Museveni Below Addressing The Indian Community [Courtesy Video]
