PM Nabbanja must fuse authority with decorum

We are deeply concerned about the recent public altercation between Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Minister of General Duties Justine Lumumba.

This public disagreement, aired openly, underscores the need for maintaining professionalism and decorum within the highest levels of government. Differences of opinion are natural within any governing body, but they should be resolved internally and discretely to preserve the dignity and unity of our nation’s leaders.

Public disputes tarnish the government’s image, undermine the Prime Minister’s authority, and destabilize the cabinet. The recent public disagreement between Nabbanja and Lumumba over the latter’s attendance at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is a case in point.

While the public has questioned the size of Uganda’s delegation, particularly when Vice President Jessica Alupo was already designated, such matters should be settled behind closed doors.

The Prime Minister’s claim that Lumumba defied her orders should have been an internal cabinet matter. Likewise, Lumumba’s rationale for attending UNGA, which she attributes to her department’s responsibility for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), should have been resolved within the government.

Instead, airing these issues publicly has sown confusion and suggested disarray. To avoid future conflicts, roles and responsibilities must be clearly defined and communicated within the cabinet. Effective communication and cooperation are key to governmental efficiency.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister must maintain her authority by resolving disputes through proper channels rather than public platforms, which serve only to weaken the government’s credibility.

President Yoweri Museveni’s silence on the matter should not be seen as license for further discord. A cohesive government best serves the nation and its citizens.

It is crucial for the Prime Minister and the cabinet to resolve their differences in a dignified, unified manner, thereby serving not only the interests of the government but also the Ugandan populace.

We urge the Prime Minister to refrain from making internal disputes public and to focus on fostering unity and professionalism within the cabinet. A government’s strength lies in its unity and ability to govern effectively.

As such, it is essential that our leadership sets an example of both decorum and efficient governance. The cabinet must work collaboratively to improve the welfare of our nation and, in doing so, enhance the credibility and image of our government.