President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni have made an unusual public apology, acknowledging failures in governance, corruption, and the alienation of Ugandans—particularly in Buganda—just months before the 2026 general elections.
The apology came during a high-profile national evangelical convention at Kololo Independence Grounds, hosted by their daughter, Pastor Patience Rwabwogo. Standing together before thousands, the Musevenis read from a shared prayer, taking responsibility for governmental shortcomings and asking for forgiveness.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Group and Receive Daily News
“We admit our humanity and acknowledge we have erred. Please forgive us, Lord,” they said, adding that, as Movement leaders, they accept blame for misdeeds committed by themselves and their representatives.
Marking over 50 years of marriage, the First Couple also prayed for national restoration, referencing their 1981–1986 guerrilla struggle. Janet Museveni, known for her devout and maternal image, appealed directly to the people of Buganda, stating, “There has been a lack of diligence, and many feel neglected.”
Though presented as a spiritual confession, the act carried clear political undertones. President Museveni, portraying himself as a paternal figure, evoked the early revolutionary spirit: “The way we approached people at the beginning is how we return—to rebuild trust and unity.”
They asked God to “restore the favour we once had” and reconnect Uganda to its founding ideals.
However, critics quickly dismissed the apology. Sarah Bireete, head of the Centre for Constitutional Governance, told NTV Uganda the gesture would be more meaningful if Museveni was stepping down: “It would make sense if he was retiring peacefully to Rwakitura.”
Political historian Dr. John Paul Kasujja echoed this, saying the apology came too late: “It’s overdue. Without action, it’s hollow.”
Observers believe the gesture was intended to rebuild frayed relations with Buganda—a region historically critical to Museveni’s rise but now leaning toward the opposition, especially following the 2009 riots and other political tensions.
In their statement, the Musevenis acknowledged that corruption and neglect had alienated grassroots supporters and that some regions feel left behind. “It is our prayer that national resources will be used to benefit all areas,” they added.
Despite the rare show of humility, no specific reforms or accountability measures were proposed—fueling skepticism.
Dr. Kasujja warned, “Apologies without change are meaningless. The 2026 elections will reveal the truth.”
Critics also noted the absence of their son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, from the event. His controversial political ambitions and aggressive rhetoric have sparked concerns about Uganda’s future leadership and human rights abuses.
Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) challenged the sincerity of the family’s religious messaging: “How does their daughter preach while the regime tortures citizens? Religion is being used to cleanse injustice.”
Bireete added that Museveni must take action: “He can stop the army’s abuses under Muhoozi and hand over power if his apology is to carry any weight.”
Still, the Musevenis insisted they remain “fully committed to the development of Buganda and Uganda.”
Also Read: Amama Mbabazi’s Daughter Wanted Over Unpaid Shs 450m Loan
