Uganda: Otunnu Says Rift With Museveni Persists Despite Backing for UN Top Job

What the report says

Ugandan diplomat Olara Otunnu said his differences with President Yoweri Museveni remain unresolved, even as the Ugandan government backs his campaign for United Nations secretary-general. According to The Independent in Kampala, Otunnu spoke to reporters on Tuesday at the Uganda Media Centre while promoting his candidacy and manifesto. He said he and Museveni still hold divergent views, but added that both have continued discussing their disagreements.

The report says Museveni met Otunnu on Monday at State House Entebbe and formally presented him as Uganda’s candidate to ambassadors from UN Security Council member states. Museveni urged them to pass Uganda’s endorsement to their governments and described Otunnu as experienced and credible. The development is notable because Otunnu’s earlier bid in 1996 did not receive support from the Ugandan government.

Otunnu also responded to criticism that his campaign is too late to succeed after receiving only two votes in an early straw poll. He said he had started diplomatic outreach later than other contenders and had not yet been able to travel widely. Uganda’s UN representative Adonia Ayebare argued that late entries can still be competitive and said travel clearance for Otunnu’s team to visit New York was expected soon.

The article also notes that Otunnu highlighted his human rights background and said he would continue to promote freedom and dignity if elected. The bid comes as Uganda’s own human rights record remains under international scrutiny, adding context to the political significance of the campaign.