President Museveni has issued a stern warning against political corruption and financial irresponsibility among Uganda’s elected leaders, as the country gears up for the 2026 general elections.
Speaking at a high-profile event, the President criticized legislators who, after securing substantial personal loans, vanish from their constituencies and neglect their duties.
“The issue with some legislators is that they get hefty loans and then abandon their constituencies,” Museveni said, calling on Ugandans to scrutinize the financial behaviour and integrity of those seeking public office.
He also took aim at the growing influence of money in politics, particularly voter bribery disguised as donations.
“Fundraisings are extortion,” Museveni declared, urging voters not to be swayed by cash handouts. “Do not vote for politicians who bribe you—it undermines your power and your rights.”
In defense of his own financial gestures, often referred to as "brown envelopes," Museveni asserted that such contributions are officially budgeted. “They are part of our budget,” he said, presenting them as part of state-backed support rather than personal patronage.
Turning to economic matters, the President reiterated his long-standing message that “Uganda’s economy has taken off,” citing growth milestones and the role of innovation.
He praised the government’s collaboration with scientists in reviving the coffee sector—once in decline—through strategic interventions and research.
“We saved Uganda’s coffee industry by working with scientists,” he said.
Museveni also reflected on Uganda’s political history, referencing past alliances and confrontations.
“We worked with Obote tactfully, but we had to fight Amin decisively,” he noted, offering insight into the leadership choices that shaped his administration’s rise to power.
Underscoring the value of regional partnerships, Museveni championed economic integration as vital to sustaining Uganda’s growth.
“Our development is tied to cooperation with our neighbors,” he said, reinforcing the government’s focus on cross-border trade and diplomatic engagement.
With the 2026 election season drawing closer, Museveni’s remarks signal a renewed focus on political accountability, fiscal discipline, and national development.
His message serves as both a critique of current political practices and a call for a more principled approach to governance.