KAMPALA, Uganda — A Ugandan living in the diaspora is calling on members of Parliament to prioritize integrity, ethics and family values when electing leaders to high government offices.
Speaking to journalists at the Speke Hotel in Kampala, Martin Kayanja said his personal experiences motivated him to advocate for morality in public leadership.
Kayanja said his family broke apart following the 2020 presidential campaign. He alleged that his former wife became involved with Norbert Mao, who was then a presidential candidate.
He said the situation deeply affected him and his children, driving his advocacy for leaders who respect family values and take responsibility for their actions.
I believe that people elected into big government offices should be people with good ethics, integrity and understanding of the impact their actions have on families, Kayanja said.
Kayanja said he has since turned to Christianity and has found healing through his faith as a born-again Christian.
Beyond his call for ethical leadership, Kayanja spoke about his desire to strengthen ties between Uganda and its citizens living abroad. In 2018, he attempted to establish an East African-European convention to promote investment and cultural exchange.
He is currently developing an initiative to allow Ugandan professionals in the diaspora, including doctors, lawyers and statisticians, to volunteer their services when visiting home. Kayanja noted that while many are willing to contribute their expertise, they lack a formal system to do so.
Kayanja said he has discussed the proposal with the speaker of Parliament and hopes the initiative will be developed further.
He urged lawmakers to select leaders with strong moral values who do not misuse public office for personal interests.
We need leaders with integrity, good morals and understanding of the impact family breakdowns have on society, he said.
