President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged Ugandans to approach elections with knowledge and responsibility, warning that leadership choices can determine whether a country enjoys stability or slides into conflict.
The President made the remarks while addressing a large crowd at a campaign rally held at Ssaza Grounds in Kiboga District.
He emphasised the importance of informed voting, explaining that responsible voters understand candidates, policies, electoral procedures and how government functions. Museveni cautioned against treating politics lightly, noting that elections are a serious national undertaking and not mere entertainment.
Reflecting on Uganda’s history, he cited the 1962 elections as an example of how poor political decisions led to instability, loss of life and prolonged conflict, urging citizens to learn from past mistakes.
Museveni called on the people of Kiboga to support him and other National Resistance Movement (NRM) flagbearers in the forthcoming elections, saying this would safeguard the gains achieved under the party’s leadership.
He highlighted four key contributions of the NRM over the last 40 years—peace, development, wealth creation and job creation—stating that these pillars have transformed Kiboga and other districts from insecurity to stability and growth.
On peace, the President said it remains the foundation of progress, noting that Kiboga has enjoyed over four decades of uninterrupted stability. He attributed this to the NRM’s rejection of sectarian politics based on religion, ethnicity, gender or age, as well as inclusive governance and strong social programmes such as immunisation.
Regarding development, Museveni outlined government investments in economic infrastructure, including roads, electricity, telecommunications and railways. He cited the Hoima–Kiboga road as a key project and pledged further upgrades to improve connectivity with neighbouring districts. He added that the anticipated start of oil production next year would provide additional resources to accelerate infrastructure development.
On wealth creation, the President underscored the importance of household income, urging families to engage in productive agriculture and enterprise. He reiterated the NRM’s four-acre model as a practical approach to diversified income generation.
Addressing job creation, Museveni said employment opportunities are driven by individual enterprise in sectors such as commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. He also highlighted government skilling centres that are equipping young people with hands-on skills, including welding, baking and other trades.
NRM First National Vice Chairperson, Alhajji Moses Kigongo, called on party leaders and supporters in Kiboga to mobilise peacefully and engage voters respectfully to strengthen support during the election period.
The Second National Vice Chairperson (Female) and Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Anita Annet Among, thanked the President for the tarmacking of the Hoima–Kiboga road, noting that it has improved transport and trade. She also appealed for the establishment of a coffee processing factory in the district to promote value addition and boost farmers’ incomes.
NRM Vice Chairperson for the Central Region, Hon. Haruna Kasolo, assured residents that the NRM government has fulfilled its commitments and will continue to deliver if given renewed mandate in the upcoming elections.
Kiboga District NRM Chairperson, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, thanked the President for restoring peace and strengthening security through the establishment of police stations in previously affected areas. She also praised the rehabilitation of the Hoima–Kampala road and commended wealth creation initiatives such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga, noting that many households in Kiboga have benefited.
