President Yoweri Museveni has issued a stern warning to Ugandan leaders who he believes are misleading citizens and diverting their attention from crucial national priorities like wealth creation.
In a strong address, Museveni expressed frustration with these “misleaders,” cautioning that they should reconsider their actions before he intervenes. “I am really not happy with the people who divert our people’s attention,” Museveni said, adding, “I am tired of the misleaders of our people, and they should check themselves or I will check them.”
Museveni’s vision for Uganda centers on economic empowerment and self-reliance for all citizens, focusing on agricultural productivity, industrialization, and investment opportunities. He emphasized that these areas are crucial for the nation’s growth and development. However, his comments come at a time when Uganda faces various socio-political challenges, with some opposition leaders voicing concerns over government priorities and strategies. Museveni views their actions as a distraction from tangible development goals, urging the opposition to work with the government to promote these objectives rather than creating divisions that stall progress.
As the current and ninth president of Uganda since 1986, Museveni is known for taking decisive action against political opponents when he feels they threaten national stability ¹. By addressing these leaders directly, Museveni is calling for unity and alignment with the government’s agenda to achieve economic prosperity. He expects leaders, regardless of their political affiliations, to support Uganda’s growth objectives rather than engaging in what he views as counterproductive actions.
Museveni’s leadership style has been described as autocratic, with his government considered to be competitive authoritarianism or illiberal democracy ¹. Despite this, he has maintained power for over three decades, with his most recent reelection in 2021. Museveni’s presidency has been characterized by an upsurge in anti-gay legislation and activity, as well as numerous constitutional amendments, including the scrapping of presidential term and age limits in 2005 and 2017, respectively.
In essence, Museveni’s warning serves as a reminder of his commitment to Uganda’s economic growth and development, and his willingness to take action against those who hinder this progress. As the country navigates its socio-political challenges, Museveni’s leadership will undoubtedly continue to shape Uganda’s trajectory.