Minister of Information and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, has strongly responded to comparisons that place him in the same category as Mukono North MP David Kabanda.
Speaking with rare bluntness, the minister made it clear that he finds such comparisons insulting, misleading, and completely detached from reality. His remarks have since sparked wide debate across political and public circles.
Dr Baryomunsi emphasized that his journey in public service has been built on years of education, professional training, and experience.
He stated that he holds a PhD in medical science, a qualification he worked hard for over many years. According to him, such academic achievement reflects discipline, sacrifice, and commitment, qualities he believes should matter in leadership.
The minister was quick to dismiss claims that he begs for political appointments or jobs. He insisted that his service to the country is not based on desperation but on merit and proven ability.
In his view, positions of responsibility should be earned through competence, not noise or political excitement.
Baryomunsi made it clear that comparing him to David Kabanda is, in his words, “pure nonsense.” He argued that the two have very different backgrounds, experiences, and levels of exposure.
To him, such comparisons are not only unfair but also disrespectful to the value of education and long-term public service.
He described Kabanda as a “political child,” suggesting that the MP is still new to serious politics and leadership. Baryomunsi’s choice of words reflected his belief that politics requires maturity, patience, and a deep understanding of governance, not just popularity or media presence.
The minister further pointed out that Kabanda is a Senior Six leaver, a fact he used to highlight the wide gap between them. While education alone does not define leadership, Baryomunsi stressed that it plays a major role in shaping decision-making, policy understanding, and national vision.
According to Baryomunsi, Uganda needs leaders who can analyze complex issues and offer informed solutions. He argued that his medical science background gives him a strong foundation in research, critical thinking, and evidence-based decision-making, skills that are essential in modern governance.
He also reminded the public that he has served Uganda in different capacities over the years. From Parliament to Cabinet, Baryomunsi said his record speaks for itself. He believes that consistency and loyalty to national service should be respected rather than ignored.
The minister expressed disappointment with what he sees as growing disrespect for experience in politics. He warned that celebrating inexperience while downplaying knowledge and competence could harm the country in the long run.
Baryomunsi noted that leadership is not a competition of insults or social media trends. Instead, he said it should be about service delivery, accountability, and the ability to improve people’s lives. He questioned why some individuals prefer personal attacks over constructive debate.
He also clarified that he does not feel threatened by younger politicians. In fact, he said he welcomes young people into politics, as long as they are willing to learn, respect institutions, and grow responsibly.
However, he insisted that respect must go both ways. According to him, ambition should not turn into arrogance, and confidence should not become disrespect for those who paved the way.
The minister’s remarks come at a time when internal debates within the ruling party and the wider political space are becoming more intense. Many observers see his statement as a signal that senior leaders are ready to defend their space against what they view as reckless comparisons.
Supporters of Baryomunsi argue that his comments reflect frustration shared by many experienced leaders. They believe that public service should reward hard work, education, and discipline rather than shortcuts.
On the other hand, critics say his words were too harsh and dismissive. They argue that leadership should be inclusive and that formal education should not be used to look down on others.
Despite the criticism, Baryomunsi has stood firm. He maintains that his statement was not meant to insult but to set the record straight. In his view, honesty is better than silence when facts are being twisted.
He also stressed that Uganda deserves leaders who understand the weight of responsibility placed upon them. According to him, leadership is about service, not self-promotion.
Baryomunsi concluded by saying that he knows his worth and his contribution to the country. He does not need to shout, beg, or fight for relevance because his work and qualifications already speak for him.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Dr Chris Baryomunsi has drawn a clear line between experience and ambition, education and excitement, seniority and political apprenticeship. Whether people agree with him or not, his message has certainly been heard.
