By Daglous Bakinyumya
Busoga has long been a stronghold of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), producing some of Uganda’s most prominent political leaders. Today, the region boasts significant representation in cabinetand high stated positions, with several of its sons and daughters holding powerful ministerial positions. Yet, despite this political dominance, Busoga remains one of the lowdeveloping regions in Uganda. The question on everyone’s lips is: What is not happening?
Political Power vs. Regional Development
On the surface, Busoga’s political influence within the government should translate into tangible development. The assumption is that having more leaders in key positions guarantees access to better infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for the region. However, reality tells a different story. Roads remain impassable, hospitals are underfunded, schools are in dire conditions, and unemployment is rampant. If political power is meant to serve the people, why is Busoga still lagging behind?
The presence of high-ranking officials from Busoga in cabinet such as RebeccaKabaga , Justine kasule Lumumba , LukiaNakadama , Moses AshimMagogo , MillyBabalanda and many others has not shielded the region from economic struggles. Instead, many leaders appear more preoccupied with personal ambitions, political rivalries, and internal power struggles than addressing the dire needs of their constituents. The competition for influence and position within the ruling party has taken precedence over the unified pursuit of development. The failure to prioritize Busoga’s progress raises serious concerns about whether these leaders truly represent the interests of their people or if they have become comfortable in their positions, disconnected from the struggles of the ordinary Musoga.
The Cycle of Political Loyalty and Neglect
Busoga has remained loyal to the NRM for decades, delivering overwhelming support in every election. In return, the region expected economic empowerment, better public services, and a fair share of the national cake. But what has been the reward for this unwavering support? The sad reality is that Busoga’s loyalty has not translated into meaningful transformation. Instead, the region continues to suffer from chronic poverty, youth unemployment, and underdevelopment, while other regions with far less political representation are making significant strides forward.
One must ask: Is Busoga being taken for granted? Has the government assumed that because Busoga votes overwhelmingly for NRM, there is no urgency to improve its living standards? Or have the region’s own leaders failed to demand more for their people?
A Call for Accountable Leadership
The people of Busoga must rise and demand accountability from their leaders. Political positions should not be viewed as personal achievements but as responsibilities to serve and uplift communities. It is not enough for politicians to attend high-profile meetings and make promises; their legacy should be measured by the impact they have on the ground.
The solution lies in shifting the focus from politics to service. The people of Busoga must challenge their leaders to deliver tangible results. Infrastructure must improve, industries must be established to create jobs, and education must be prioritized. Leaders must stop using their positions for self-preservation and instead use their influence to advocate for policies that directly benefit the people.
A Wake-Up Call to Busoga’s Leaders and the NRM
The time for empty promises is over. Busoga’s leaders must wake up and recognize that their legacy will not be defined by the number of years they serve in cabinet but by the difference they make in the lives of their people. If they continue to ignore the region’s development, history will judge them harshly.
At the same time, the ruling NRM must not take Busoga’s loyalty for granted. The region’s patience is wearing thin, and failure to deliver on key development projects may lead to a political shift in future elections. The government must take deliberate steps to address the economic and social challenges facing Busoga if it hopes to maintain the trust of its people.
Conclusion: The Choice is Ours
Busoga is at a crossroads. Will the region’s political leaders rise to the occasion and champion the development their people desperately need? Or will they continue to enjoy the privileges of power while their constituents remain trapped in poverty?
The people of Busoga must decide. They can either continue to tolerate broken promises or demand real change. The time for rhetoric is over. It is time for action. The leaders have the power, but the people have the voice. And that voice must be heard.
DaglousBakinyumya is Political TV Producer and TV Host – @BDouglasPaapa
