In what was supposed to be a cordial business convention aimed at strengthening economic ties between Uganda and the Netherlands, the event turned into a political storm for Uganda’s State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balam Balugahara Ateenyi, and Uganda’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Belgium, and the EU, Mirjan Blaak.
The Uganda-Netherlands Business Convention, held recently in Amsterdam, was met with intense protests led by disgruntled Ugandans in the diaspora and opposition supporters. As Balam and Blaak arrived at the venue, they were greeted by a wave of protestors holding placards and posters. The demonstration was spearheaded by Nico Scoonderwoerd, the National Unity Platform (NUP) Ambassador to Europe and a vocal critic of the Ugandan government’s human rights record. Protesters questioned why the Netherlands would host representatives of a regime they accuse of gross human rights violations.
The anger was palpable as chants filled the air, condemning the Ugandan government’s treatment of its citizens, particularly those who oppose President Yoweri Museveni’s long-standing rule. Among the names invoked by protesters was that of Kakwenza Rukirabasaija, a Ugandan writer and government critic who fled to Germany seeking asylum after allegedly being tortured for his outspoken views. Many others have also fallen victim to Museveni’s actions, with some losing their lives.
The controversy escalated when it was reported that Balam and Blaak had supposedly enjoyed a cordial interaction with some protesters, even sharing drinks as a sign of goodwill. However, Nico Scoonderwoerd quickly refuted these claims, labeling them as “Balam’s propaganda,” which further fueled the tension surrounding the event.
Balam, who has long been a staunch supporter of Museveni, has found himself at odds with former allies. He was once a close associate of Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, the musician-turned-politician who has emerged as one of Museveni’s fiercest opponents. Balam, who was instrumental in organizing Bobi Wine’s early music concerts, has since distanced himself from the opposition leader, aligning himself firmly with Museveni’s camp.
This dramatic turn of events at the convention has only underscored the deep divisions within Uganda’s political landscape and the diaspora’s unwavering demand for accountability and justice back home. What was meant to be a gathering for economic growth has instead highlighted the growing international discontent with Uganda’s current leadership.
