Thursday January 2017, marks the 31st anniversary of the NRA victory (Liberation day).
On January 26, 1986, the National Resistance Army (NRA), under the wing of the political National Resistance Movement (NRM), ousted a government that represented years of corruption, civil rights offenses, and alleged voter fraud.
The movement, led by Yoweri Musevini, promised “a fundamental change in the politics” of Uganda. The country now commemorates the event every year as NRM Liberation Day, though not without its detractors.
This year's celebrations according to Esther Mbayo the minister for presidency, will take place in Masindi district. The Chief Guest will be President Yoweri Museveni.
Addressing the press at an ongoing briefing at Uganda media centre, Mbayo said Celebrations will be under the theme: "Uganda's Success Story Under NRM's Leadership, A shared Victory."
She also took time to brag about a few promises she believes the NRM Government has achieved. She pointed out that basics like sugar, salt, soap were very rare on the market by 1986 here. It hasn't been easy changing that.
“To continue changing positively Uganda's economy, we need the effort of everyone. Poverty has also been reduced. World Bank now praises the economy of Uganda. NRM has improved transport through UNRA, with impressing roads; In the health sector, the situation has been improved, including giving free ARVs to people living with HIV/AIDS. On security, this has been a pillar of the NRM Government. We have helped countries like South Sudan and others get peace” she said.
Minister Mbayo added that the Government of president Museveni relates this victory from the people of Uganda. The president will also give out medals as this is a common practice. “Expect people to get rewarded with medals on this day.”
Also, two Heads of State who she did not mention are expected to grace the 31st Victory celebrations.