I have taken note of the resolutions reportedly approved during the Annual General Meeting of former legislators of which I am a member.
These include a proposal for a monthly payment of Shs15 million as well as special recognition measures such as official identification cards and distinctive attire for use at public and state functions.
While I respect the views of my fellow former legislators, I am not comfortable with these proposals. Leadership and politics are primarily a call to serve the people not a lifelong source of income. Public office should never be viewed as a profession with permanent wages.
As leaders, we should encourage those in public service to invest in sustainable income-generating activities while they are still in office, rather than depending on public funds after leaving office. We must build a generation of leaders who set an example through self-reliance, integrity and a commitment to nation-building.