By Charles Twiine Mansio | CEO @TheThirdEye Consults (U) Ltd
As the old adage goes, “when calamity strikes, the wise build bridges, while the foolish build barriers.” Yet, in Uganda, it appears that some individuals and groups have mastered the art of turning tragedies into political footballs, cynically exploiting human suffering to further their own selfish agendas.
Whenever disaster strikes, a cacophony of voices rises, blaming the government for everything from natural disasters to individual human error. The rhetoric is as predictable as it is poisonous, with the “Naysayers,” a term aptly describing those who revel in negativity, dominating the airwaves and social media platforms.
Their modus operandi is to create a narrative that is as misleading as it is damaging. They conveniently ignore the fact that some disasters are natural, while others result from individual human error or criminality. Instead, they peddle a false narrative that implies the government is somehow responsible for every mishap that occurs.
But here’s the rub: a significant section of the population tends to believe this rhetoric, hook, line, and sinker. It’s a case of “the blind leading the blind,” where misinformation and misconceptions are perpetuated, and the truth is sacrificed at the altar of political expediency.
Meanwhile, government officials, including those from the ruling party, relevant ministers, heads of departments, and other heads of statutory institutions, seem to be asleep at the wheel. They fail to effectively counter this malicious rhetoric, leaving the field open for the Naysayers to run amok. It’s a dereliction of duty that borders on criminal negligence.
One cannot help but wonder: are these officials so caught up in their own comfort zones that they’ve forgotten the art of governance? Are they so oblivious to the realities on the ground that they fail to see the damage caused by this cynical politicization of tragedy?
For example, recent tragedies in Uganda, including the Kiteezi landfill collapse, floods in the city, and landslides in eastern Uganda—specifically in Bulambuli and Bududa—as well as the floods in Kasese, have been met with a mix of concern and politicization. The “Naysayers” have been quick to blame the government for these disasters, ignoring the fact that some are natural or caused by individual human error. Regrettably, sometimes these tragedies result from the negligence of individuals who have been warned or cautioned by the very government they criticize. Shame on those who shamelessly trivialize and politicize tragedy, exploiting human suffering for their own selfish agendas. Can’t they see the hypocrisy? Don’t they have any shame?
Then there’s the media’s role in this debacle, which is particularly puzzling. One can’t help but wonder: whose interests are they serving by sensationalizing tragedies and amplifying the hateful rhetoric of the Naysayers? Are they truly committed to informing the public, or are they merely seeking to stir up controversy and boost their ratings?
As we navigate this complex web of misinformation and politicking, it’s essential to take a nuanced approach. Instead of merely providing a platform for the Naysayers to unjustifiably attack the government, we must seek to understand the real causes of these tragedies. We must ask tough questions, seek out credible sources, and report responsibly.
To truly transform Uganda, we need a deliberate and patriotic approach to governance. This starts with embracing the President’s vision, which is rooted in his proven stewardship, patriotism, and nationalism. We must jealously cherish, adopt, and inculcate these values, which have been demonstrated through his tireless efforts to promote unity, prosperity, and progress.
The media has a critical role to play in promoting patriotism and nationalism. By reporting responsibly, objectively, and factually, they can help to counter the destructive narrative of the Naysayers and promote a more nuanced understanding of the challenges facing the nation.
Let’s put the reputation of our country first and work together to build a nation we can all be proud of. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and the future of our great nation.
To my fellow Ugandans, I say: let’s stand up for our country. Let’s support our leaders and work together to build a brighter future. We will not be defined by the cynicism and negativity of a few. We will be defined by our resilience, our determination, and our unwavering commitment to a better tomorrow. Let us unite against the forces of division and negativity. Let us unite in our pursuit of a brighter future.
We are Uganda, and we will not be silenced.
