The government of Uganda has marked Heroes Day (9th June) remarkably for the first time, without mass gathering celebrations.
A private ceremony ensuring social distancing was organised at State House attended by National Resistance Army (NRA) bush war heroes, religious leaders, cabinet ministers and selected guests.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Museveni said the day is symbolic because it honours Ugandan Heroes that have had to get out of their comfort to sacrifice for the nation.
“We celebrate our heroes on June 9th because on that day, in 1981, the Obote government executed nine of our supporters in Kikandwa Village, Nakaseke District. The day, however, symbolizes our memory of all other heroes who died at different times.” Museveni said.
The President said that the success of the NRA struggle as embodied by the martyrs of Kikandwa was based on appreciation of the cause, commitment to it and the discipline to execute that cause.
“Today, we are confronted by an enemy worse than the war of bullets that we fought. It is a biological war and the value of discipline cannot be over-emphasised. Without a cure or vaccine for COVID-19, it is our personal discipline that matters most.” Museveni said.
President Museveni appealed to Ugandans to observe measures and guidelines set out by the government in its effort to ease the lockdown.
“It is disheartening to see some people blatantly flout these guidelines.” Museveni said.
PHOTO CREDIT: PPU
