kazofm.admin, Author at Kazo FM - 97.8

Trump and Harris Prepare for High-Stakes Debate

Written by kazofm.admin on September 9, 2024. Posted in Opinion.

The U.S. presidential race is proving to be highly competitive, with polls indicating a tight contest just two days before the first and potentially only televised debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Recent surveys show that Trump commands unwavering support from roughly half of voters, despite his status as a convicted criminal and his role in the effort to overturn the 2020 election results.

Harris, who entered the race after President Biden dropped out in July, has quickly evolved from a largely overlooked vice president to a credible challenger. However, current polling suggests she has yet to achieve a significant breakthrough, resulting in a neck-and-neck race. A Siena College poll indicates Trump leads Harris nationally by a narrow margin of 48 to 47 percent, well within the margin of error.

U.S. presidential elections rely on state-by-state outcomes rather than the national popular vote, making key swing states crucial. The polling suggests that Harris holds a slight advantage in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, while being tied in several other pivotal states, including Nevada, Georgia, North Carolina, and Arizona. A YouGov poll also shows Harris ahead by one percentage point in Michigan and Wisconsin, and tied in Pennsylvania.

The electoral landscape remains chaotic, with Biden, at 81 years old, having exited the race amid age-related concerns, and Trump narrowly surviving an assassination attempt at a rally. There are also persistent fears regarding Trump’s potential refusal to concede if he loses in November.

Despite the tumult, both candidates appear to have solidified loyal bases, resulting in a nearly even split among voters. Trump will be under pressure to moderate his typically aggressive style in the presence of Harris, who is vying to become the first female president of the United States.

Harris aims at delivering an optimistic, forward-looking message that contrasts sharply with Trump’s dire warnings about the future of the country without his leadership. Nonetheless, she has faced criticism for her focus on unity and optimism at the expense of concrete policies. In response to these critiques, her campaign released a policy platform addressing issues such as unions, cost-of-living concerns, and healthcare.

Navigating the debate will be a challenge for Harris, as Trump is known for making false statements and provoking his opponents. Biden struggled in his only debate against Trump, illustrating the difficulty Harris may face.

Trump has also subjected Harris to racist and sexist taunts, mispronouncing her name and labeling her as “crazy” and a “Marxist.” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg noted the extraordinary focus and discipline required for Harris to engage effectively in a debate with Trump.

After the debate, the Harris campaign plans to visit battleground states, starting in North Carolina and then heading to Pennsylvania. Meanwhile, Trump continues to rally his mostly white, working-class base, delivering dark speeches that frame Democrats as a “rogue regime.” On his social media platform, he has threatened to impose harsh prison sentences on anyone he accuses of intending to “cheat” in the upcoming election.

R.Nyamwamba bursts banks, Floods Kasese Municipality

Written by kazofm.admin on September 7, 2024. Posted in News, Regional.

Business and activities in Kasese Municipality were severely disrupted on Saturday after River Nyamwamba overflowed its banks, causing widespread flooding in key areas of the town.

The most affected locations include Mboghoyabo, Bihande, and Henry Bwambale roads in Kisanga Cell, as well as a section of the Kasese-Fort Portal Highway and Bataka Road in Saluti Cell. Additionally, Gaz and Kobil fuel stations were submerged, leading to a complete suspension of business operations.

Tragically, one person has reportedly drowned after falling into a flooded drainage ditch along the Fort Portal-Kasese highway.

Kabugho Maryline, a trader at Mawa Market, described the chaos as water suddenly surged into the market area around 9:00 am. Many traders fled, while others scrambled to move their products to higher ground, hoping the waters would recede.

“We were taken by surprise, but we hope the waters will go down as the day progresses,” Kabugho lamented.

Umar Baluku, a resident of Mubuzi Cell, reported that water entered their home at around the same time, destroying several household items that were left on the ground.

Kasese town has a history of flooding, with a similar incident occurring in May this year when residents found water entering their homes overnight after River Nyamwamba also burst its banks.

Tebboune Poised for Second Term in Algeria’s Presidential Election

Written by kazofm.admin on September 7, 2024. Posted in Africa, News.

Algerians are participating in a presidential election in which incumbent Abdelmadjid Tebboune is expected to secure a second term. Polling stations opened at 8:00 am local time on Saturday, with over 24 million registered voters. More than 800,000 expatriate Algerians, primarily in France, began voting on September 2.

Tebboune, 78, is facing two challengers: Abdelaali Hassani Cherif, 57, and Youcef Aouchiche, 41. Although 15 candidates sought to enter the race, only Hassani Cherif and Aouchiche gathered sufficient signatures to qualify. Neither poses a significant challenge to the military establishment, which has maintained considerable influence since the 1960s.

Campaign rallies for this election, rescheduled from December to an earlier date, have struggled to generate excitement, partly due to the summer heat. Political commentator Mohamed Hennad has suggested that the election’s outcome seems predetermined given the restrictive campaigning conditions.

A major challenge for Tebboune is boosting voter turnout, which was under 40% during his first election in 2019 and dropped to about 30% in the 2021 legislative elections. “The president is keen to have a significant turnout,” said Hasni Abidi, an analyst at the Geneva-based CERMAM study center.

These low turnout figures have coincided with the Hirak pro-democracy protests that led to the ousting of Tebboune’s predecessor, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, which were subsequently suppressed through intensified policing and mass arrests.

With over half of Algeria’s 45 million population being young, all candidates are trying to engage this demographic by promising to improve living standards and reduce reliance on hydrocarbons. Tebboune has highlighted his economic achievements during his first term, citing job creation and wage increases in Africa’s largest natural gas exporter.

If re-elected, Tebboune is expected to continue focusing on enhancing energy exports while implementing limited pro-business reforms and maintaining generous subsidies, all while exercising tight control over dissent.

His challengers have pledged to promote greater freedoms. Aouchiche has committed to releasing political prisoners through an amnesty and revising restrictive laws related to media and terrorism, while Hassani Cherif advocates for the restoration of civil liberties curtailed in recent years.

Preliminary results may be announced as early as Saturday night, with the electoral authority, expected to release official results by Sunday.

State Minister for Defence, Sarah Nyirabashitsi Dead

Written by kazofm.admin on September 7, 2024. Posted in National, News.

The Minister of state for Defence and Veteran Affairs who is also Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament, Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke has passed away at the age of 50. Her brother, Dr. Gedion Mugisha, confirmed that she suffered a heart attack at her home in Kampala during the early hours of Saturday and was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at Mengo Hospital for treatment.

Dr. Mugisha expressed his sorrow over her untimely death, highlighting the significant loss to both the family and the Kisoro District community. He mentioned that burial arrangements would be discussed in a family meeting and noted the expectation that the government would assist with the burial program.

Nyirabashitsi’s father, Dr. Philemon Mateke, a former state minister, described her passing as a substantial blow to the family. Various community leaders including Kisoro municipality deputy mayor Augustine Mbonigaba and district council speaker Amos Hakizimana, praised Nyirabashitsi’s contributions as an exemplary legislator who was dedicated to her constituents. They stressed her commitment to development, unity, and empowerment particularly of women and youths.

Born on July 15, 1974, in Kisoro District, Nyirabashitsi received her education from local schools and universities, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Public Health, among other qualifications. She was actively involved in family businesses and founded the Nyirabashitsi Foundation to support children’s education.

She was the chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Metropolitan International University and Makerere Metropolitan Management Institute, Kampala.

Her political career began as the Assistant Town Clerk for Kisoro before successfully running for Woman Member of Parliament in 2021. Initially serving as Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development, she was later appointed as Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs earlier this year amid a cabinet reshuffle by President Museveni. The community has expressed deep sorrow at her passing, recognizing her as a pivotal figure in local governance and development.

Lwengo’s Newly Appointed RDC Urges Collaborative Efforts for NRM Strengthening

Written by kazofm.admin on September 6, 2024. Posted in News.

Emmanuel Turyabagyenyi Kateera, the newly appointed Resident District Commissioner of Lwengo District, has called on residents to embrace and support the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government led by President Museveni, highlighting the significant infrastructure advancements achieved under his leadership.

This appeal was made during a ceremony where he received instruments of authority from his predecessor, Hajji Ramathan Walugembe, who has been transferred to Maracha district as the new Resident District Commissioner.

Turyabagyenyi expressed concern over the 43 percent voter support that President Museveni garnered in the last general elections from Lwengo district, deeming this level of support unacceptable and urging that it should not continue in future elections. He cautioned that those unwilling to support President Museveni should reconsider their presence in Lwengo district.

He stressed the importance of elections not only being free and fair but also genuinely reflective of the electorate’s will. Optimistic about continuing the commendable work of Walugembe, Turyabagyenyi pledged to address the political challenges facing Lwengo, especially given the district’s reputation as a recruitment ground for the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) amid ongoing political infighting.

With over 75 percent of district councilors and more than 90 percent of Members of Parliament affiliated with the NRM, Turyabagyenyi asserted that poor political performance will not be tolerated, particularly regarding support for President Museveni. He plans to engage with all political leaders and stakeholders to understand the reasons behind electoral outcomes and seek solutions to the political challenges facing the district.

Former RDC Hajji Ramathan Walugembe encouraged the community to welcome and support Turyabagyenyi, emphasizing his commitment to teamwork and quality service delivery.

The handover ceremony, held in Mbirizi Town Council, was attended by several notable local leaders, including Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Nyende Alex, Regional Coordinator for Operation Wealth Creation Ankole sub-region Col. Sam K. Murali, and Assistant RDC for Mbarara Ms. Grace Namara.

Bishop of Linz Urges Action Against Violence and Corruption in Uganda

Written by kazofm.admin on September 5, 2024. Posted in News.

The Bishop of Linz Diocese in Austria, Rt. Rev. Manfred Scheuer, has called on leaders to take a strong stand against violence towards women and children. He as well asked them desist from corruption. He emphasized that a violent and corrupt community cannot thrive, highlighting that these issues are particularly rampant in Africa and Uganda in particular.

The prelate made these remarks yesterday September 4 while presiding over mass during the handover of a five classroom block at St. Mary’s Primary School in Kyamuhunga, Bushenyi District .The building whose construction was purely on donations made by the Austrian organization Sei So Frei, under the auspices of the Linz Diocese.

He urged the community to engage in income-generating projects to combat poverty and ensure that their children receive education pointing out that a family with many children living in poverty often struggles to provide basic needs and education for them.

Paul Kahigi Turyamureeba, the chairman of the Management Committee expressed his gratitude to Linz Diocese for their generous contribution, noting that the construction of the five classroom block, valued at Shs445 million is a significant achievement in the context of Uganda and in particular to Kyamuhunga Subcounty.

Bushenyi District Steps Up Security in Response to U.S. Terrorism Alerts

Written by kazofm.admin on September 5, 2024. Posted in News, Regional.

Security operatives in Bushenyi District have ramped up patrols and monitoring in Ishaka town following recent warnings from the U.S. government regarding potential attacks by suicide bombers and terrorists in Uganda.

William Donanto Katsigazi, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Bushenyi District confirmed that security has been heightened particularly in Ishaka town and around Kampala International University. identified as high-risk areas. He urged the public to remain vigilant and called on churches, nightclubs, and other crowded venues to enhance their security measures, including the installation of surveillance cameras.

Shawn Kimuli, the Head of Public Relations at Kampala International University, acknowledged the threats specifically targeting educational institutions and stated that the university has increased security efforts and is actively educating students and staff about potential risks, encouraging them to report any suspicious activities.

Archbishop Bainomugisha Urges Support for the Vulnerable

Written by kazofm.admin on September 5, 2024. Posted in News, Regional.

The Archbishop of Mbarara Archdiocese, the Rt. Rev. Lambert Bainomugisha, has urged Ugandans who are blessed with material wealth, education, and knowledge to show kindness and support to the less fortunate and vulnerable members of society.

The prelate said this yesterday, Wednesday September 4 while commissioning a new five-classroom block at St. Mary’s Primary School in Kyamuhunga Subcounty, Bushenyi District. He expressed gratitude to the generous donors from Austria who contributed to the construction of the building, valued at Shs445 million.

Raphael Magyezi, the Minister of Local Government, who facilitated the connection between the Austrian donors and St. Mary’s Primary School, encouraged school administrators to name the block in honor of their generous friends from Austria.

Annet Katusiime Mugisha, the Woman Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District, praised the Austrian donors for their support. She commended Archbishop Bainomugisha’s call for hard work and dedication to building a legacy, emphasizing that generous individuals will always be remembered for their contributions to the community.

Dancans Mugumya, the Commissioner of Physical Education, representing the Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang, expressed satisfaction with the progress of Universal Primary Education schools like Kyamuhunga. He noted that the school provides holistic education, contributing positively to government’s educational initiatives which have sometimes faced challenges.

Grace Omwigarire, the head teacher of St. Mary’s Primary School, reported that the school has an enrollment of over 901 pupils and had previously faced challenges with congestion. She expressed optimism that the new classroom block will create a more conducive learning environment for the students.

Tragic Loss: Olympic Athlete Cheptegei Passes Away After Severe Burns and Organ Failure

Written by kazofm.admin on September 5, 2024. Posted in News, Sports.

Dr. Owen Menach, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and Director of Clinical Services and Surgery at the same facility, says Rebecca Cheptegei tragically passed away at 5 a.m. on Thursday due to full organ failure. “It is sad that we lost the patient early this morning after all her organs failed while we were doing our best to save her life,” he stated.

Dr. Tony Sabila, a family member, confirmed her death to Nation Sport, saying, “It is true that we lost our sister this morning, although the doctors tried to save her life, and I was there personally.”

Cheptegei, 33, suffered from 80 percent burns and was on life support due to the severity of the injuries which included being incubated and fully sedated.

The Kenyan government had announced on Tuesday September 4 that preparations were in place to airlift Cheptegei to Nairobi for specialized treatment, but unfortunately, this did not occur. Principal Secretary for Sports, Peter Tum, noted that discussions had taken place with Uganda’s Sports Minister, Peter Ogwang, regarding the airlift.

Athletics Kenya President Jack Tuwei condemned the incident that led to her injuries, emphasizing that no one should have to experience such a tragedy over property disputes, especially involving partners. “The incident that happened to our athlete from Uganda is really unfortunate and it’s sad because you can’t harm someone because of a disagreement. As a federation, we want to condemn this in the strongest possible terms because this is not the way we should live,” Tuwei asserted, also highlighting the importance of respecting life and living in harmony.

Arrangements for her burial are underway while investigations to establish what could have resulted into Cheptegei’s demise.

Maduro Moves Christmas to October Amid Political Crisis and U.S. Sanctions

Written by kazofm.admin on September 4, 2024. Posted in Across Africa, News.

Francis Albert Sinatra an American singer and actor who was the “Chairman of the Board” and later called “Ol’ Blue Eyes,” regarded as one of the most popular entertainers of the mid-20th century. Sinatra is among the world’s best-selling music artists, with an estimated 150 million record sales globally. He once paused a question whose answer has not been given, “Whatever happened to Christmas?”

However, in a quest for answers, Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro has moved Christmas from December to October. He announced this week that Christmas festivities would begin on October 1. In his Proclamation, Maduro said , “It’s September, and it already feels like Christmas. This year, I’m going to decree that Christmas be brought forward to demonstrate my appreciation for you.”

The decision by the 61-year-old president is seen as a move to distract people from the turmoil that has engulfed the country following a contest of July’s presidential election.

Christmas holds significant cultural importance in Catholic-majority Venezuela, and not everyone is pleased with the notion of celebrating the holiday season amid the ongoing unrest in the country.

Jose Ernesto Ruiz, an office worker in the capital city, Caracas, shared his skepticism stating, “Christmas is supposed to be a time of joy, family reunions, parties, presents… but without money and with this political crisis, who can believe that there will be an early Christmas?”

Maduro’s declaration comes during a significant political crisis in his 11-year rule. He promised Venezuelans a holiday filled with “peace, happiness, and security,” despite deep uncertainty and dissatisfaction across the nation.

His victory in the disputed July presidential elections faces scrutiny as experts suggest that he may have lost to opposition candidate Edmundo González. Tensions escalated with an arrest warrant recently issued against González.

Adding to the strain, the United States is set to impose sanctions on 15 Venezuelan officials for obstructing free and fair elections. This list may include foreign minister Yván Gil and several members of the electoral council. Additionally, military officials implicated in the violent crackdown known as Operación Tun Tun are likely to face consequences for their roles in actions that led to over 20 deaths and 1,700 arrests during protests.

A chilling propaganda video from Venezuela’s military counterintelligence unit, DGCIM, accompanies this violent crackdown, featuring a sinister adaptation of “Carol of the Bells.” The lyrics warn that a creature named Krampus is coming for those who misbehave, saying, “If you’ve done wrong, then he will come! He’ll look for you! You’d better hide!”

While shifting Christmas celebrations is unusual, Maduro has done so before since taking office after Hugo Chávez’s death in 2013. This latest move appears to be a strategy to divert attention from the devastating economic collapse and widespread suffering under his administration, serving as a festive distraction in turbulent times.

Author: kazofm.admin