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Ssemujju argued that as President Museveni is now 80 years old, it would be prudent for him to be subjected to periodic medical evaluations
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By Our Reporter
PARLIAMENT - Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has sparked a debate in Uganda's Parliament after proposing that President Yoweri Museveni undergo regular medical and mental fitness checks to assess his ability to continue leading the country. Ssemujju drew parallels to the United States Democratic Party's request for President Joe Biden, 79, not to contest the 2024 election due to his age.
During a parliamentary session, Ssemujju argued that as President Museveni is now 80 years old, it would be prudent for him to be subjected to periodic medical evaluations to ensure he meets the constitutional requirement of being "mentally and physically fit" for office.
“A while ago, MP Pacuto advised that we undergo periodical medical checks after the sudden death of our colleague,” Ssemujju said. “But there are also constitutional requirements. To be President, the Constitution says you must be mentally and physically fit. In the United States, President Joe Biden was asked not to contest due to his age. We should do the same for President Museveni, who at 80 is making erratic decisions."
Ssemujju cited the President's forgetfulness regarding the lack of a Central Bank Governor as a sign of potential cognitive decline. "Before I came here, I was a journalist, and President Museveni said at 75, you're tired. Recently, he didn’t even remember that we don’t have a Governor for the Central Bank," he added.
President Museveni recently showed his physical abilities while opening the FEASSA games in Bukedea
However, his remarks were met with strong opposition from some MPs. John Baptist Lokii (Matheniko County) defended Museveni, stating that the President has not shown any signs of being unfit to lead Uganda despite his age. Lokii highlighted Museveni's extensive experience in leadership, acquired over his 40-year tenure.
“He [Ssemujju] is trying to insinuate that an elderly person at 80 years can’t steer this country. Our President has shown no signs of failing to discharge his duties. Is Ssemujju in order to imply that our President can no longer lead Uganda?” Lokii asked.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa also joined the debate, praising President Museveni's sharp memory and leadership. Tayebwa led the house in celebrating Museveni's recent 80th birthday and urged MPs to learn from how the President has managed to remain physically and mentally fit at his age.
“Our President clocked 80 years, and we had a huge celebration. Attaining another year on earth is something worth celebrating, especially for someone who has done so much for this country," Tayebwa remarked.
The proposal for Museveni’s regular medical evaluations continues to stir controversy, with opinions in Parliament divided. While some support Ssemujju’s call for greater transparency in assessing the health of national leaders, others believe Museveni’s experience and legacy outweigh concerns about his age.
Torch Media Africa
