President Museveni has criticised what he called a growing culture of entitlement among some local government officials, urging leaders to embrace modesty and focus on public service rather than personal benefits.
Speaking on leadership and public service, Museveni reflected on his personal upbringing, saying leaders should avoid excessive expectations from government resources and instead demonstrate self-reliance.
“I used to ride a bicycle from Kazo to Rwakitura. Today, you hear a Muluka Chief demanding a motorcycle. For what? Let them ride bicycles,” Museveni said.
The President argued that public servants should concentrate on their duties rather than pursuing privileges, warning that growing demands for facilitation place unnecessary strain on public resources.
He expressed concern over what he described as a dependency mindset among some officials, saying it undermines accountability and the spirit of self-reliance he has long promoted as a foundation for Uganda’s development.
“I am tired of this culture of parasitism and entitlement. This is the time to speak plainly and honestly,” Museveni added.
Museveni’s remarks come amid ongoing national debates over government expenditure, efficiency in public service delivery, and the cost of maintaining administrative structures at local government level.
He has consistently advocated for a culture of hard work, sacrifice, and self-sufficiency as key pillars for Uganda’s socio-economic transformation, often using personal examples from his early life to illustrate his position.
The comments are likely to generate debate among local government officials, some of whom have previously argued that adequate facilitation is necessary to enable them effectively execute their responsibilities.
However, Museveni maintained that leadership should be guided by commitment to duty rather than expectations of personal comfort or material privilege.