Bombay Gardens: Asian Contribution to Black African Oppression

On August 4, 1972, Idi Amin shocks the International community with his indictments of the Asiatic race. On this day, Amin makes the announcement that Uganda's 50,000 Asians must leave the country within 90 days or "face the consequences." The alleged dream with which Amin justifies his behavior consists of God telling him to expel all Asians, (mostly Indians), on the grounds of economic exploitation and corruption. Charged with sabotaging African's attempts to gain economic independence, General Idi Amin's proclamations are grotesquely familiar; haunting the minds of Asian men, women, and children forced to leave the country disillusioned, disenfranchised, and dispossessed. Familiar with Idi Amin's brutal tactics as well as the Infamous State Research Bureau, this announcement is the Asians worst fear confirmed.

It is unknown whether the General's announcement is premeditated; however, during a visit to army barracks in Tororo in Eastern Uganda, he clearly expresses his opposition to the Asian non-citizens stating: "I am now going to ask Britain to take over responsibility for all Asians in Uganda who are holding British passports, because they are sabotaging the economy of the country...There is no room in Uganda for people who have decided not to take up local citizenship." The General also states that the Asians are "encouraging corruption" and that "the emphasis must now be placed on jobs for the Ugandans," particularly those of the African race. (Keatly)
Although the implication of the announcement speaks grimly to the Asian community, the message resonates within the Black African population. This can be attributed to the fact that several key positions are held by Asians which causes resentment.

Lillian Bennett is a 25 year old who lives in Chicago, Illinois. This is her second article dealing with the Asian Expulsion from Uganda in 1972.

Credit: Lillian Bennett

Copyright: Lillian Bennett