Museveni Warns Leaders Over Misleading Ugandans

President Yoweri Museveni cautioned Ugandan leaders on November 2, warning those who mislead citizens to reconsider their actions or face repercussions. Speaking at a thanksgiving ceremony in Luwero District honoring Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa’s new role as a Canon in the Church of Uganda, Museveni criticized leaders who divert focus away from wealth creation. He urged leaders to guide citizens in achieving economic independence by following the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) wealth creation initiatives.

“I’m tired of the misleaders of our people, and they should check themselves or I will check them,” Museveni warned, emphasizing that Ugandans should focus on practical income-generation activities, particularly commercial agriculture. Citing the success of initiatives in regions like Kapeeka, Museveni explained that, “Even if roads are unpaved, local farmers transport goods to markets and make substantial incomes.”

Museveni also criticized government agencies and certain members of Parliament for blocking critical national projects, such as the Bujagali Dam, which he said led to an energy crisis in 2005. “The President can bring up something crucial, but Parliament blocks it. This standoff must stop for Uganda to develop,” he said, calling for cooperative governance.

The President outlined ongoing efforts to streamline government expenditures, particularly in agencies with disproportionate budgets. Rationalization, he said, will direct saved funds toward development. He also criticized the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), alleging corruption within the agency, adding, “The more money you pay them, the more corrupt they become. That war we are also fighting.”

He concluded by congratulating Minister Nankabirwa on her Church role and praised her commitment to national unity and economic development. The event was attended by prominent leaders and religious figures, including Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, who commended Museveni’s continued support for the Church.