By Fortunate Masawi
Minister Jane Aceng’s Desperate Social Media Attacks
In recent times, Minister Jane Aceng has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Her desperate attempts to maintain a positive public image have led her to deploy various social media attacks, sponsor blogs attacking ministers from Lango, and even encourage propagandists to create fake polls where she leads. Additionally, she has been accused of blacklisting politicians hailing from Lango, a region in Uganda. Such actions not only undermine the principles of democracy but also raise concerns about the ethical conduct of a government official
Social media has become an influential platform for politicians to connect with their constituents and shape public opinion. However, when used irresponsibly, it can also be a tool for spreading misinformation, propaganda, and personal attacks. Minister Aceng’s recent actions demonstrate a concerning misuse of this powerful tool.
One of the most alarming aspects of Aceng’s behavior is her sponsorship of blogs that attack ministers and other political leaders from Lango, such as Hon. Among Betty, Hon. Hamsom Obua, among others. This not only creates a hostile environment within the government but also undermines the unity and cooperation necessary for effective governance. Instead of fostering healthy debate and constructive criticism, Minister Aceng’s actions perpetuate division and animosity among colleagues.
Another disturbing tactic employed by Minister Aceng is the encouragement of propagandists to create fake polls where she leads. This deliberate manipulation of public opinion not only misrepresents the true sentiments of the people but also undermines the democratic process. By promoting false information, Minister Aceng is eroding the trust that citizens place in their elected officials and distorting the public discourse.
She is also reported to be blocking constituencies of fellow politicians like Hon. Betty, Paul Omara, Linda Ouma, and others from Lango from accessing key goverment programs like upgrade of health facilities, ambulances, medical equipment and others from the health Ministry which she heads. This is aimed at portraying her as powerful and the only working Minister and others as non influencial. If any constituency in Lango is to get anything from the health sector, it has to be at her mercy.
Such actions are not only discriminatory but also a violation of the principles of equality and fairness. It is essential for a government official to treat all citizens and politicians with respect and impartiality, regardless of their regional background.
Minister Aceng’s desperate attempts to maintain a positive image and suppress dissenting voices raise serious concerns about her ethical conduct and suitability for public office. Resorting to personal attacks, sponsoring blogs, and manipulating public opinion not only damages her own reputation but also undermines the credibility of the government as a whole.