President Museveni Calls for Politics of Interest to Maintain Peace and Stability in Afro-Arab Youth Council

By Kundu Ronald

State Lodge-Nakasero, August 20, 2023— In a bid to foster peace and stability among member countries, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged members of the Afro-Arab Youth Council to champion politics of interest over divisive politics based on identity. President Museveni made this appeal during a meeting with a delegation from the Afro-Arab Youth Council at State Lodge-Nakasero.

Speaking passionately about the dangers of politics rooted in tribal and religious identities, President Museveni stressed that such politics often serve as a catalyst for instability and conflict within nations. He highlighted examples like Sudan and Lebanon, where religious and identity-based politics have led to devastation and division.

Drawing from Uganda's own history, President Museveni recalled the challenges the country faced in 1962 when political parties were formed along religious and tribal lines, resulting in a fragmented political landscape. However, he pointed out that Uganda managed to overcome this obstacle through deliberation and the establishment of a three-language policy that preserved regional and indigenous languages.

"Interest, not identity, should be our guiding principle," President Museveni emphasized, likening ideology to medicine and emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis to find the right solution.

Addressing the youth's role in building a better future, President Museveni called on them to act as advocates and facilitate collaboration between African and Arab countries in the realm of business. He pledged support for the Afro-Arab Youth Council, expressing his commitment to helping establish their International Headquarters in Ssisa-Nakawuka.

"As your Patron and chief fundraiser, I will reach out to member countries for contributions," President Museveni assured.

Dr. Abdul Haddi Lahweeji, President of the Afro-Arab Youth Council, echoed the organization's mission of promoting peace, independence, and socioeconomic improvement in member states. He stressed the council's role as a bridge between the Arab world and African nations, aiming to empower African youth to shape the continent's future.

Dr. Haddi also expressed the council's desire to participate in the upcoming Arab-Africa summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a request for a side summit dedicated to youth issues. President Museveni promised to write to the Saudi Arabian government to secure the necessary permissions.

The meeting concluded with discussions about developmental programs and initiatives the Afro-Arab Youth Council plans to undertake in Uganda. These include providing educational materials, organizing medical camps, and mobilizing support for primary education.

The gathering was attended by key figures such as Dr. Abbas Agaba, the Secretary General of the Afro-Arab Youth Council, and various representatives from different regions. President Museveni's call for politics of interest resonates as a pivotal step toward fostering peace and stability in the Afro-Arab Youth Council's member countries.