Uganda’s Parliament Appointments Committee has rejected the nomination of Dr. Lawrence Muganga as State Minister for Internal Affairs, citing concerns over his dual Ugandan and Canadian citizenship.
Dr. Muganga, the Vice Chancellor of Victoria University Kampala, was among the individuals nominated by President Yoweri Museveni for ministerial positions following a recent Cabinet reshuffle. However, his appointment failed to secure approval during the vetting process conducted by the committee chaired by Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth.
During the proceedings, Muganga defended his nationality and reaffirmed his commitment to Uganda, emphasizing that being a Munyarwanda does not make him a Rwandan national.
“I'm Munyarwanda, and Banyarwanda are among the tribes in Uganda. That is a simple fact. I am not Rwandese. Before I came here, I had two citizenships—that's the Ugandan citizenship and the Canadian citizenship,” Muganga said.
He explained that like many Ugandans who travel abroad in search of education and better opportunities, he acquired foreign citizenship while maintaining strong ties to his homeland.
“Before I came here, I definitely had two citizenships—that's the Ugandan citizenship and the Canadian citizenship. Like every young person who aspires to do better, you leave this country and go elsewhere to work, support your family, and build a future. But that does not take away one's love for the country. I am Ugandan. Uganda is my country,” he added.
The committee's decision has sparked discussion, especially after other nominees with dual citizenship backgrounds reportedly secured approval after making commitments regarding their nationality status.
Under Uganda’s citizenship laws, certain public offices, particularly those linked to national security and internal affairs, carry strict requirements regarding citizenship status. The rejection of Muganga’s nomination highlights the legal and constitutional considerations surrounding appointments to such sensitive positions.
Despite the setback, Muganga's remarks underscored his belief that Ugandans living abroad and holding foreign citizenship can still contribute meaningfully to the country's development while maintaining their national identity.