By Ben Musanje
The Chairperson of Parliament’s Committee on Education and Sports, Cuthbert Abigaba, has jokingly suggested that the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) could take over government a thousand years from now, adding that he hopes its leaders will remember him favourably when that day comes.
Abigaba, who represents Kibale County in Parliament on the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket, made the light-hearted remarks while recognizing Kigulu South MP and NUP member Andrew Kiiza Kaluya during an oversight visit to the Uganda Health Professions Assessment Board (UHPAB).
In a humorous exchange that drew attention during the meeting, Abigaba acknowledged Kaluya, who serves as the Shadow Minister for Education and Sports, saying his political affiliation could one day put him in a position of influence.
“He’s our member, but by virtue of his office, we have hope that maybe one thousand years to come, they will be in government,” Abigaba joked.
He immediately added that he hoped the NUP leadership would not hold anything against him when that distant political transition eventually happened.
“And when they are in government, we don’t want them to say that you mishandled us. So this is why, whenever I’m sitting here, I don’t want him to be very far from me. When that time comes, I don’t know when that will be. I don’t want to be abandoned,” he said, prompting amusement.
The remarks appeared to be a playful reference to the country’s political rivalry between the NRM and NUP, whose president, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has contested against President Yoweri Museveni in the 2021 and 2026 presidential elections.
However, beyond the political humour, Abigaba used the moment to emphasise the importance of cooperation between leaders from different political parties, particularly when dealing with national issues such as education.
He said members of the Education and Sports Committee had agreed that improving the country’s education system should transcend political differences.
“Education is a common good. So in education, we shouldn’t have shadows of political belief. Our aim is one, to ensure that the quality of education of learners is better,” he said.
Abigaba further commended Kaluya for his contribution to the committee’s work, urging him and his team to maintain the spirit of cooperation.
He also recognized his Vice Chairperson, Emmanuel Ongiertho, the MP for Nebbi Municipality, describing him as a dependable adviser and supporter who helps coordinate committee activities in his absence.
The light-hearted political exchange took place as the committee concluded its opening remarks ahead of receiving presentations from UHPAB’s Board and management on the institution’s performance, achievements and operational challenges.
Abigaba’s remarks offered a humorous glimpse into how political rivals can share a working relationship in Parliament despite belonging to opposing political camps. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
