President Yoweri Museveni has expressed his commitment to ending corruption in Uganda, emphasizing that the fight remains firmly in his hands. This statement comes in response to anti-corruption protests led by youths and activists on Tuesday.
President Museveni announced that he would discuss the protests in detail next week and assured Ugandans that he would take action whenever there is evidence of corruption.
“Next week, I will make a broadcast and discuss more on the issue. I praise the Lord that there was no bloodshed on Tuesday. The fight against corruption is in my hands. I just need evidence and action will be taken,” Museveni said on Thursday.
Museveni also condemned the holding of anti-corruption demonstrations in heavily crowded areas of Kampala, suggesting that protesters should have chosen less congested areas and times.
“In particular, the heavily populated suburbs of our cities – Kawempe, Bwaise, etc. – should never be used for demonstration because they will damage the little wealth creation that our people are painstakingly building up,” Museveni said.
In a proactive measure, the President tasked the Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema, to organize a peaceful anti-corruption march to Kololo ceremonial grounds once maintenance work on the grounds is completed.
“That part of Kampala is, besides, lightly populated except during the day-light hours. Nakalema can coordinate with the genuine anti-corruption fighters for a similar effort, especially on a Sunday,” he said.
“Kololo ceremonial grounds are being repaired now. When the work is finished, Nakalema should organize us. I will be there,” he added.
The Tuesday anti-corruption protests saw several detainees and others summoned over what police say is involvement in illegal proceedings. The President’s response underscores the government’s stance on maintaining order while addressing the concerns of citizens.
