The Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, expressed his disappointment with the recent State of the Nation Address (SoNA), stating that it presented an overly optimistic view while neglecting Uganda’s critical issues.
During his response to the SoNA on Thursday, 01 August 2024, Ssenyonyi highlighted the disconnect between the government’s portrayal of progress and the daily struggles faced by ordinary citizens. He criticized the address for deviating from its purpose and becoming more of a ceremonial ritual rather than a genuine assessment of the national condition.
Ssenyonyi pointed out persistent economic challenges such as rising unemployment and the high cost of living. He also raised concerns about the government’s mismanagement of borrowed funds and the increasing public debt, which has reached Shs97 trillion as of June 2024.
He specifically criticized the lack of progress on promises made by the government, such as the construction of a specialized hospital at Lubowa, which has seen over Shs600 billion invested without tangible results.
Ssenyonyi emphasized the burden of over-taxation on small business owners and working families, calling for a comprehensive taxation policy to prevent injustice. He also urged the revision of the Domestic Revenue Mobilisation Strategy to ensure equitable revenue collection without further burdening the people.
On the issue of corruption, Ssenyonyi called out the lack of concrete action despite slogans of ‘crushing’ corruption. He criticized the government’s reluctance to conduct lifestyle audits and emphasized the need for tangible results rather than mere rhetoric.
Overall, Ssenyonyi stressed the urgency for the government to address the pressing issues facing Uganda and deliver on its promises for the betterment of the country.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.