Robert Kyagulanyi, leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), described how roadblocks set up by security forces during his nationwide tour actually provided an unexpected opportunity.
Kyagulanyi’s tour, which began Thursday in Kamuli, eastern Uganda, faced numerous obstacles as security operatives blocked the main routes, forcing his convoy onto unpaved rural roads.
According to Kyagulanyi, these diversions delayed his arrival until 6 p.m. but allowed him to witness firsthand the poor infrastructure and living conditions along these alternative routes.
“The army and police prevented us from using the main roads, and when we reached Jinja, we found the road completely closed. This forced us to use rural roads, taking over eight hours to reach the venue,” Kyagulanyi said.
Kyagulanyi noted that this detour became a “blessing in disguise,” enabling him to observe the poverty, lack of electricity, and extensive sugarcane plantations that he claims do not benefit local residents.
At a rally in Busoga, he expressed concern over the region’s sugarcane industry. Despite being a major cash crop, Kyagulanyi argued that locals see little benefit.
“Recently, when a kilogram of sugar cost 3,000 shillings, a ton of sugarcane was sold for 250,000 shillings. Now, with sugar at 5,000 shillings per kilogram, a ton is sold for just 80,000 shillings. This is due to a regulation that requires growers to obtain permits to sell their sugarcane—a law that disadvantages local farmers,” he stated.
Last month, Busoga sugarcane growers voiced concerns over falling prices, which they say have left over 50,000 farmers struggling to make ends meet. Growers have urged the government to review the Sugar Act to stabilize the industry and protect their livelihoods.
“If possible, we want to meet the President to discuss the challenges we’re facing,” said Patrick Jimmy Samona, chairperson of Mayuge farmers.
On Friday, Kyagulanyi headed to Abim district in the Karamoja sub-region, where he pledged to deliver a similar message about resource fairness. He highlighted that Karamoja’s mineral wealth, particularly in gold, has not benefited local communities.
“To date, the Karamojong are not allowed to access gold mines. Even a recent mine that was opened was sealed off by the army. We must raise awareness so that everyone benefits from Uganda’s resources, not just a select few,” Kyagulanyi concluded.
