Africa-Press – Uganda. Jackline Mbabazi has pledged to champion the dignity, rights, and well-being of the country’s elderly, accusing the current system of neglect and indifference.
The wife of former Prime Minister and ‘Super Minister’ Amama Mbabazi is seeking the voters’ mandate for Member of Parliament representing Older Persons in Uganda’s Western Region,
Launching her campaign this week, Ms Mbabazi decried the gap between Uganda’s legal protections and the reality on the ground.
“There are many laws in place, including the Constitution, that safeguard the rights of older persons,” she said.
“But without practical mechanisms to enforce them, they remain useless.”
Ms Mbabazi, whose family at one time dominated over the NRM structure as they maintained custody of the party register, painted a grim picture of how some elderly Ugandans are treated, citing cases where they are transported in wheelbarrows just to access social assistance.
“It is heartbreaking. This money is meant to help them, and it should be taken directly to where they are,” she said.
Among her key pledges, Ms Mbabazi vowed to use Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) to improve nutrition and financial education for older persons.
She also called for sustained public sensitization campaigns to ensure the elderly understand their rights and the services available to them.
“The government must stop discriminating against the elderly,” she said.
“They deserve respect and care. I will work with the Ministry of Health to ensure medical centres are equipped to meet their needs.”
Ms Mbabazi’s campaign received a strong endorsement from her husband, former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi, who said: “Jackline brings integrity and compassion to this role.
She is committed to fighting for the people.”
Her message resonated with many in attendance, reflecting growing frustration over how Uganda treats its ageing population.
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