Former Kira Municipality MP Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has questioned the continued relevance of Heroes’ Day, arguing that Uganda already observes multiple national events tied to the country’s liberation struggle, making some of them redundant.
Speaking during a live appearance on NBS Television on Tuesday night, Ssemujju said the country currently maintains at least three national commemorations linked to the National Resistance Army (NRA) and the liberation war, including Liberation Day, Tarehe Sita, and Heroes’ Day.
“Heroes’ Day may have had significance when it was first introduced. Uganda now commemorates three days related to the NRA and liberation struggle, including Liberation Day, Tarehe Sita, and Heroes’ Day; which are unnecessary,” he said.
Ssemujju argued that national focus should shift from historical celebrations to evaluating government performance and delivery of public services.
He maintained that citizens are more concerned with current governance outcomes than past political milestones.
“We should be celebrating what the government has done and delivered for the people, not its history coming into power,” he added.
The former legislator also made a strong statement on the legality of armed takeovers, saying the principle of seizing power through force remains contrary to law, regardless of political justification.
“Seizing power to overthrow a government is against the law,” Ssemujju stated.
His remarks come amid continued national observance of Heroes’ Day, marked annually on June 9 to honour individuals considered to have contributed to Uganda’s liberation and national development.
The debate over the relevance of liberation-era commemorations has periodically resurfaced in Uganda’s political discourse, with critics arguing that too many such events risk overshadowing present-day governance challenges.