By The Homeland News Corps
Uganda President Yoweri Museveni calls for creation of African standby force to defend its territorial integrity against imperialists. Museveni said this while chairing the meeting on African Capacity for Immediate Response to Crisis on Sunday morning in Ethiopia made the case for the need to harmonise the African Standby Force, an urgent and necessary step for Africa’s self-defense system.
Museveni who is being criticized for overstaying in power (34 years) told his counterparts that in the past, concerted efforts by those who were willing and capable have delivered victory against imperialist forces to people across the continent.
Museveni said the proposed move goes far back as 1963,Museveni Unfortunately, noted that the spirit has continued to dwindle, resulting in the shameful and direct affront on Africa again, even against the express advise of the African Union.
He said For Libya, “I am personally ashamed that a committee of African Heads of State, mid-air to Libya to hold discussions with President Gadaffi and opposing factions, was told to turn around because NATO had made the decision to start bombing Libya.”
“This is not to speak of what the current reports are saying about Mali, Niger, Libya, Sahel and so on,” he said. “In Somalia, a few of us decided to move in on the Al-Shabab and we have delivered over and above, amidst challenges”.
Museveni said this clearly demonstrates that Africa has the capacity to solve many of its problems, which requires a sustainable and multi-pronged approach to support the effort itself and the gains thereof.
Museveni who has confirmed to seek a sixth term in office said the need, is more urgent now, than before.
The February 9-10 summit discussed peace and security in Africa, among other issues. The assembly reviewed progress made and the challenges to peace, stability, and sustainable development in Africa.
This year’s summit is being held under the theme Silencing the Guns: Creating Conducive conditions for Africa’s Development.
The initiative of silencing the guns is a flagship project of Africa’s agenda 2063 and aims to achieve a conflict-free Africa, make peace a reality for all and rid the continent of wars, civil conflicts, gender-based violence, violent conflicts and preventing genocide.
Uganda’s delegation at the Summit also includes Foreign Affairs Minister Sam Kahamba Kuteesa and State Minister of Finance for Planning David Bahati among others.
