Museveni: Arrests Without Due Process Illegal, No Block on EAC Goods

By Ivan Kaahwa

President Museveni, in response to arrests lacking proper legal procedures, emphasized the illegality of detaining someone without subsequent court proceedings. He stressed that any suspect should be presented in court within 48 hours, acknowledging existing principles in writing, albeit not fully implemented. Museveni noted instances where affected individuals turn to NGOs instead of the police station, warning that this approach will not provide a resolution.In addressing the complexity of issue resolution in the Republic of Uganda, Museveni highlighted the challenges faced by outsiders due to the current state of affairs in the country. He urged the public to report cases, assuring them that appropriate action would be taken through democratic structures.

Touching on Somalia’s admission to the EAC, Museveni underlined the importance of economic integration, noting that Somalia had already participated in a common market before joining the bloc, given the presence of East African commodities in their shops. He emphasized the continued significance of trade, even in challenging environments such as Somalia.

Turning to concerns about EAC countries blocking commodities from Uganda, the president questioned the media’s focus, challenging them to prioritize content that contributes to shaping a better future. He encouraged discussions on livelihood and market strategies for products like maize, milk, and sugar, fostering public opinion for an inclusive approach toward addressing issues with EAC member states.

Museveni questioned the impact of known tariff barriers, particularly citing the situation where rice from Tanzania is sold at a lower price in Uganda, seemingly posing a challenge to Ugandan rice producers. Asserting that he will not restrict products from EAC states, he committed to engaging with the president of Tanzania to address the issue. He advised Ugandans capable of competing to explore alternative opportunities.”We cannot be unfair to Ugandans by blocking imports from Tanzania, as it might prompt reciprocal actions. I understand Kenya faces similar challenges, but I won’t adopt the same approach,” he stated, drawing a parallel with the disorganization in Latin America, rich in minerals yet facing economic hardship, posing the question of whether Africa would prefer a Latin American or a United States of Africa model.

Commending the European Union’s consideration of halting purchases of coffee from deforested forests, Museveni aligned with the idea, deeming agriculture in wetlands criminal. He pledged eviction for those who encroached on wetlands, citing their importance for raw materials like papyrus and grass.

Acknowledging the impact of COVID-19, Ebola, and locusts on land reform efforts, Museveni assured that Uganda is progressing despite the challenges.

Addressing concerns about fraudulent land titles, Museveni advised collaboration with the police. Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, highlighted the preventive role of the Land Information Management System against double titling. Museveni committed to issuing an executive order to remove soldiers from land affairs.

Responding to a query about contesting the 2026 presidency and Uganda’s history of a non-peaceful transition of power, Museveni emphasized that such discussions should occur at the right time, cautioning against unnecessary stress. He noted that the decision for 2026 would be made in line with the established transition cycle.

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