Governance and execution of public policies is not about fashion but about addressing the needs of the people and demonstrating compassion.
Government policies, however abrupt, may need committed individuals who can act swiftly. Rt Hon Robinah Nabanja is seen by many party supporters in Bugisu and beyond as the right person for the job.
Many observers believe that Rt Hon Robinah Nabanja is skilled in statecraft, a natural mobilizer, and has extensive networks across the country. This contrasts with previous, more academically inclined politicians who were often based in Kampala.
Besides being Prime Minister, Rt Hon Robinah Nabanja is a compassionate person, as noted by Hon Irene Manghali Khainza, the Inzuyamasaba envoy for mobilization and former RDC of Manafwa. Manghali and Nabanja have a close friendship and previously served together as Resident District Commissioners.
The Prime Minister recently visited Bugisu to express condolences to those who lost loved ones in the landslides in Bulambuli. Her tears as she visited the affected areas conveyed her deep sorrow for the displaced and bereaved.
She also delivered much-needed government aid to the affected families. While many Prime Ministers have cried, their tears have often been due to political pressure or other office-related challenges. Nabanja’s tears were a genuine expression of grief for the lives lost, especially the young children.
When Inzuyamasaba officials visited the camps, a young girl asked when “Mayi Robinah” would return. An elderly woman expressed admiration for the Prime Minister’s compassion, noting that she had never seen a leader so deeply affected by the suffering of others.
The sight of the Prime Minister riding a motorcycle through the muddy, landslide-damaged roads to reach the affected areas has been widely shared on social media. This contrasts with previous Prime Ministers who might not have undertaken such a physically demanding task.
Nabanja believes in direct action and personal engagement. She prefers to visit the affected areas herself rather than delegating the task.
Irene Manghali praised the Prime Minister’s dedication and noted that her appointment has brought many women closer to government.
The Bamasaba cultural leader, His Highness Jude Mike Mudoma, expressed gratitude for Nabanja’s support for cultural activities and her efforts to assist the landslide victims.
The landslides displaced over 2,000 people, and the Office of the Prime Minister has provided essential aid. The cultural institution plans to work with the government to restore damaged cultural sites and sensitize the community about environmental conservation.
Steven Masiga is the spokesperson of the Bamasaba cultural institution and a legal writer.
