Having been in Uganda for the elections this February, the polling stations were very orderly and Kampala and Jinja calm. However, as Museveni enters his sixth, five-year term fractures among the populace are starting to surface. Thrice defeated candidate Kizza Besigye is rallying support from the public to bolster his claim that the election was rigged. Demonstrations led by his supporters over the last three weeks have caused eight deaths, over 250 injures and an estimated 580 arrests. The most recent demonstration culminated with Besigye himself being hospitalised in Kenya. Besigye commented "the population is largely marginalised and is now protesting their marginalisation". He promises to continue demonstrations until the situation is resolved in his favour.
Whilst most of the demonstrations are being held in Kampala, some two hours from the orphanage - the economic effects are felt country-wide. The Indian merchants and shopkeepers are once again fleeing in response to this political unrest and causing the cost of materials and oil to increase. From a practical perspective, we have decided to slow construction of the orphanage utilising the materials we already have until prices come down. Once the political climate stabilises, the dormitory will be merely weeks from completion.
Whilst most of the demonstrations are being held in Kampala, some two hours from the orphanage - the economic effects are felt country-wide. The Indian merchants and shopkeepers are once again fleeing in response to this political unrest and causing the cost of materials and oil to increase. From a practical perspective, we have decided to slow construction of the orphanage utilising the materials we already have until prices come down. Once the political climate stabilises, the dormitory will be merely weeks from completion.
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