The state minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Okello Oryem has said that in search of quick benefits, the youth who neglected their responsibilities, have become susceptible to being used by ill-intentioned people to destabilize the country.
He went on to caution the youth against being used by self-seekers intending to destabilize the government noting that the NRM is ready to engage and deal with anyone that attempts to do so.
“This country has suffered a lot from the past, so before coming up with a decision for a coup, engage the Government because even if you don’t engage us, we shall crash you,” he added.
Oryem made these remarks over the weekend, during the commemoration of the United Nations (UN) 76th year in Uganda engaging the youth and other stakeholders on civil and appropriate ways to channel grievances to the responsible parties.
“I was once a youth and I know what it takes, Government has a responsibility to the youth and there is no doubt on that. But the youth should stop lamenting all the time and do their part,” he said.
Edwin Muhumuza, the President of Youth Coalitions on SDGs, noted that the people in various positions of power have failed to mentor the youth and sidelined them from most government projects, increasing the rate of unemployment.
“You should not take young people as chaotic crowds who prefer riots and demonstrations but you should look at them as groups of educated people with ideas which can develop the country through the creation of employment,” Muhumuza noted.
The youth who participated asked the government to reduce the tax levied on data noting that the expenses have affected their right to the internet as a mode of communication.
They also pushed for the lifting of the ban on Facebook as it is one of the tools they use to market their merchandise and other services.