President-elect Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has said his decisive return to office is the result of God’s grace, the unwavering backing of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), and the professionalism of Uganda’s security forces.
Speaking at his Rwakitura home in Kiruhura District shortly after the official declaration of results on Sunday, Museveni outlined key priorities for his 2026–2031 term. He thanked NRM supporters, party leaders, and campaign teams for their commitment, and praised the military and security agencies for ensuring peace and stability throughout the electoral process. He also acknowledged the role played by religious and cultural leaders in promoting harmony and calm across the country.
Reviewing the conduct of the elections, Museveni noted that voter turnout was lower than anticipated, with about 10 million registered voters not participating. He described this as a serious signal regarding the party’s grassroots penetration and said the NRM would probe the reasons behind the apathy. He further observed that many of the invalid votes were cast by NRM supporters, particularly elderly voters, underscoring the need for internal reforms and better voter guidance.
On security, the President-elect cautioned against acts of violence or disruption, citing reports of armed groups attempting to interfere with polling in some areas. He emphasized that maintaining peace remains paramount, warning that Uganda must not slide into instability like that witnessed in countries such as Libya.
Turning to the economy, Museveni outlined a two-pronged strategy for his next administration: strengthening wealth creators—including commercial farmers, manufacturers, tourism investors, and other entrepreneurs—through institutions such as the Uganda Development Bank, while simultaneously expanding targeted interventions to lift the poorest households out of poverty. His vision, he said, is to make every homestead a productive economic unit.
He highlighted the Parish Development Model and presidential skilling hubs as effective initiatives already delivering hope at the community level, pledging to expand them further to tackle household poverty and protect vulnerable citizens from political manipulation.
In social services, Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to free education in public schools, improved healthcare delivery—particularly consistent availability of medicines—and stricter supervision of service providers. He acknowledged widespread public concern over corruption and perceived injustices within the judiciary, promising firm action to strengthen accountability and fairness. He also vowed close oversight of road construction and maintenance, especially on paved highways, to ensure leaders and contractors deliver value for money.
On the broader economy, Museveni confirmed that Uganda is on the brink of becoming an oil producer and said revenues from the non-renewable resource would be invested in long-term national infrastructure. Key areas of focus include railway development, expanded power generation, and enhanced science and technology education to secure sustainable growth and self-reliance.
In his closing remarks, the President-elect thanked all Ugandans, including those who supported the opposition, and called for unity and calm as the country enters a new phase of leadership.
Earlier, First Lady Janet Museveni expressed gratitude to the President, NRM structures, faith leaders, and grassroots mobilizers for their role in the victory. She described the outcome as a testament to God’s faithfulness and urged party members to renew their commitment to selfless service for the good of the nation.
