The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Nobert Mao, leaders of political parties, Members of Parliament and other stakeholders launched Building Synergies Uganda (BSU) Think Tank on Friday in Kampala.
BSU, chaired by Hon. Beatrice Kiraso, commissioned a study on “Inclusiveness in Uganda’s Democratic Governance” which examined the implications of Uganda’s electoral system to establish the extent of political-governance inclusiveness & assesses the relationship between political leaders in Uganda and citizens.
Mao, who was the chief guest at the launch organized by the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy Uganda, emphasized that the BSU think tank has the potential to become a hub of intellectual vigor, fostering innovative solutions and collaboration for the challenges that lie ahead in our policy landscape.
“Establishing Building Synergies Uganda think tank signifies a commitment to proactive and informed governance,” said Mao.
Mr. Muhammad Kibirige Mayanja, former JEEMA President and two times presidential candidate, said inclusive governance extends beyond formal political structures.
“The involvement of civil society organizations and grassroots movements is essential. They play a critical role in holding the government accountable, advocating for marginalized groups, and contributing to policy discussions. Protecting the space for civil society to operate freely is crucial for fostering inclusiveness,” said Mayanja.
The Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) Secretary General, Alice Alaso warned that the absence of an inclusive debate space risks political explosion.
“If you board a taxi and listen to people’s conversations, there is a lot of anger and curses. People are in their own world and have nothing to lose. It’s like a moving powder keg waiting to explode,” said Alaso.
The Butambala County Member of Parliament, Mwanga Kivumbi said there should be a complete freedom of expression.
“People should be given an opportunity to speak without fear. For you to retain certain jobs in this country, you cannot speak your honest mind about certain issues. If it is a business, it will be targeted until it is failed,” said Muwanga Kivumbi.
The BSU study established that the power of citizens currently ends at voting, simple-Majority election principle and victories more often represent minority franchise andUganda’s First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) electoral system enables individual voters to influence election outcomes through the single-person-single-vote principle.
Mr. Prismus Bahiigi, the Country Director, Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy Uganda, expressed gratitude participants at the launch of BSU (Building Synergies-Uganda) saying the organization has been established during a critical period when Ugandans truly require it.
“I urge all Ugandans to warmly embrace and provide their support to BSU, as it is intended to be a valuable resource that the entire nation can rely on,” said Bahiigi.
Hon. Kiraso stated that BSU aims at creating a safe dialogue space.
“There is a lot of talk of hopelessness amongst the population and this creates uncertainty, so we want to create a safe place and not in parliament,” said Kiraso.