Museveni Accepts Re-Election, Pledges Focus on Poverty Eradication and Unity
Rwakitura, Uganda – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today received the official declaration of his victory in the recent presidential elections, marking the beginning of a new term focused on lifting Ugandans out of poverty, fostering national unity, and ensuring disciplined governance. The declaration, presented by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC), solidifies President Museveni’s continued leadership of the East African nation.
According to provisional figures released by the Electoral Commission, President Museveni secured over 7 million votes. The formal handover took place at his country home in Rwakitura, a symbolic gesture emphasizing his deep connection to the Ugandan people.
A Legacy of Leadership and a Vision for the Future
In his acceptance speech, President Museveni expressed profound gratitude to God and his wife, First Lady Janet Museveni, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his decades-long political journey. He reflected on over 55 years of struggle, dating back to 1971, framing his victory as a continuation of a long-held commitment to the betterment of Uganda.
“I want to thank God for this victory and for all the victories we have had over the last 55 years of struggle since 1971,” President Museveni stated. “I also thank Maama Janet for her support.”
The President attributed his success to a collective effort, recognizing the vital roles played by NRM members, party leaders, and key national institutions. He specifically lauded the armed forces for maintaining security, religious leaders for their spiritual guidance, and cultural leaders for promoting peace and stability.
“I thank the armed forces for their role, the religious leaders for praying for us, and the cultural leaders for being responsive and working for peace,” he affirmed.
Addressing Voter Turnout and the Path to Unity
President Museveni acknowledged a concerning trend: the absence of approximately 10 million NRM supporters from the polls. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the reasons behind this low turnout, signaling a commitment to understanding and addressing the concerns of his base. This introspection is linked to a renewed focus on the founding principles of the NRM – unity and stability – particularly in regions previously affected by conflict.
“About 10 million of our people did not turn up. Many of them are our members, and we must find out why,” he explained. “That atmosphere of maximum unity is coming back,” he added, pointing to the improved security situation in northern and eastern Uganda.
The President highlighted the potential of government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and presidential skilling hubs to restore hope and empower Ugandans. While acknowledging challenges in their implementation, he stressed the importance of rigorous evaluation to ensure their effectiveness. What role do you think community-led initiatives can play in supplementing these government programs?
“PDM has given people hope that we can get rid of poverty,” he said, adding that skilling hubs are equipping young people with practical abilities. “We must analyze and find out” what is working and what isn’t.
Security, Economic Priorities, and Regional Integration
On the issue of security, President Museveni issued a stern warning against acts of violence linked to political extremism, emphasizing that maintaining peace is a collective responsibility. He underscored the role of all Ugandans, including opposition members, in safeguarding national stability. He cautioned groups allegedly collaborating with foreign interests to cease their disruptive activities.
“It is not just the security forces who are maintaining peace,” President Museveni stated. “It is all Ugandans, including members of the opposition.” He added, “This is a free warning from me: Stop what you are doing. We shall maintain peace in Uganda.”
Looking ahead, President Museveni outlined two key economic priorities: supporting existing wealth creators and decisively addressing household poverty. He emphasized the central role of the PDM funds in achieving the latter goal, advocating for a targeted approach to eliminate poverty at the grassroots level. How can Uganda balance supporting established businesses with fostering new entrepreneurial ventures?
“For about 70 percent of the people in the money economy, we must support them to continue growing,” he said. “For the remaining 30 percent, this is where we must decisively address poverty.”
The President also reiterated his commitment to free education, improved healthcare, and a relentless fight against corruption. He warned that his next term, referred to as “Kisanja,” would be marked by strict accountability and harsh measures against corrupt officials.
“Corruption annoys our people,” he declared. “I will be very harsh in this Kisanja.”
Regarding job creation, President Museveni reaffirmed the focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and the private sector. He also highlighted the importance of regional integration, particularly within the East African Community, as a means of expanding Uganda’s market access. He confirmed that oil production is expected to commence this year, with revenues earmarked for long-term infrastructure projects such as railways, power stations, roads, and science education.
“Our oil will start flowing this year,” he announced. “This money must be used for things that will last, like railways, power stations, roads, and science education.” He cautioned against distributing oil revenues directly to local governments, arguing that this finite resource should be invested in sustainable assets.
The First Lady, Janet Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports, congratulated the NRM family on their electoral victory, urging leaders to remain steadfast in their faith and commitment to guiding Uganda. Vice President Jessica Alupo and Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among also offered their congratulations, praising President Museveni’s leadership and the NRM’s strong performance in the elections. NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong emphasized the party’s growing strength and its commitment to strengthening party structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are President Museveni’s primary goals for his new term?
President Museveni’s main priorities are poverty eradication, fostering national unity, ensuring disciplined governance, and promoting economic growth through support for wealth creators and targeted poverty reduction programs.
What is the Parish Development Model (PDM) and how does it relate to President Museveni’s plans?
The Parish Development Model is a government program designed to empower local communities and lift them out of poverty. President Museveni views it as a crucial tool for achieving his goal of eliminating poverty at the household level.
What is President Museveni’s stance on corruption?
President Museveni has vowed to take a firm stance against corruption during his new term, warning that he will be “very harsh” in holding corrupt officials accountable.
How does President Museveni plan to utilize Uganda’s oil revenues?
President Museveni intends to invest Uganda’s oil revenues in long-term national assets, such as railways, power stations, roads, and science education, rather than distributing them directly to local governments.
What concerns did President Museveni express regarding voter turnout?
President Museveni expressed concern over the fact that approximately 10 million NRM supporters did not vote and pledged to investigate the reasons behind this low turnout.
Disclaimer: This article provides news and information for general knowledge purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.
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