As debate continues over the rejection of Dr. Lawrence Muganga’s ministerial appointment linked to questions around dual citizenship, media personality Karitas Karisimbi has entered the discussion with a reflective appeal for tolerance, inclusion, and a shift in how public service is evaluated in Uganda.
In a detailed personal statement, Karisimbi drew from her own lived experience, recounting the emotional and practical challenges she faced after losing her Ugandan passport years ago, an experience she described as deeply personal and life-shaping.
“I was born and raised in Uganda. It is the country that shaped me, educated me, gave me opportunities, and allowed me to serve to the best of my ability,” she said.
“When my Ugandan passport was revoked years ago, it was one of the most difficult experiences of my life.”
She noted that the decision forced her into difficult identity considerations, ultimately leading her to acquire a Rwandan passport and work permit in order to continue her professional and personal life.
Despite the administrative hurdles, she emphasized that her connection to Uganda remained unchanged.
“I have always considered myself Ugandan in every meaningful sense of the word, having lived here my entire life,” she stated.
Karisimbi argued that the controversy surrounding citizenship and eligibility for public office should not overshadow what she termed the core measures of leadership—competence, integrity, and service delivery.
According to her, public assessment of leaders should be grounded in impact rather than documentation alone.
“That experience taught me an important lesson: service to one’s country is not measured solely by the passport one carries, but by the contribution one makes, the values one upholds, and the commitment one demonstrates to the people around them,” she said.
Her remarks come at a time when Uganda is witnessing heightened scrutiny of citizenship status in public appointments, a debate reignited by concerns surrounding Muganga’s eligibility.
Karisimbi urged institutions tasked with vetting leaders to be allowed to execute their responsibilities without undue politicisation, while encouraging citizens to focus on outcomes rather than identity politics.
She also reflected on Uganda’s social fabric, describing it as a nation built on intertwined communities and shared histories.
“Uganda’s story has always been one of diverse communities, cultures, and histories living alongside one another,” she said. “Our identities are often more interconnected than we sometimes acknowledge. That diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.”
Addressing tensions around ethnic identity, Karisimbi distanced herself from narratives that, in her view, seek to deepen divisions among communities.
She rejected attempts by individuals claiming to represent broader ethnic groups, insisting that such voices do not speak for her.
“I have never denied my heritage, nor have I ever stopped loving Uganda,” she said, adding that her Rwandan heritage does not diminish her Ugandan identity or contribution.
She further recalled earlier periods when individuals of Rwandan heritage in Uganda were hesitant to openly acknowledge their background, warning against any regression to such conditions.
Instead, she called for continued progress toward a society where identity is not a barrier to participation.
“The loss of a passport did not diminish my affection for this country or my desire to contribute to its future,” she said.
Concluding her remarks, Karisimbi appealed for restraint and unity in national conversations, emphasizing the need for peaceful coexistence.
“Let us therefore choose wisdom over anger, unity over division, and dialogue over suspicion,” she said, adding: “Peace, respect, and togetherness must always come first.”