Politics 25 May 2026 State House (Uganda)
Museveni Tackles Lazy Leaders, Parliament Elects New Speaker and Deputy
President Yoweri Museveni issued a stern warning to inactive leaders, declaring they are 'traitors' and vowing to be 'rough' with those neglecting their constituents' interests. The government has allocated significant funds at the parish level, and Museveni expects leaders to utilize these resources effectively for poverty eradication. Source: https://statehouse.go.ug/enough-is-enough-president-museveni-warns-lazy-leaders-as-parliament-elects-new-speaker-and-deputy-speaker
President Yoweri Museveni has declared an “enough is enough” stance against what he terms lazy and inactive leaders. Speaking at the first meeting of the 12th Parliament at Kololo Independence Grounds, the President characterized such leaders as “traitors” who betray Uganda by failing to champion socio-economic development for their constituents.
“I have already laid a trap for all those people through programs on the ground,” Museveni stated, expressing frustration that despite substantial government investment in programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM), which allocates Shs 800 million in low-cost capital to each parish, poverty persists.
He urged leaders to hold themselves accountable for the utilization of these funds, emphasizing that ministers would face dismissal if their villages continue to suffer while capital is readily available. “If you are a minister and I come to your village and people are still suffering, I will sack you,” he warned.
The President also vocally discouraged leaders from being preoccupied with foreign interests, such as European football clubs, while their own populations remain impoverished. “How can you be celebrating European clubs when your people don’t have anything?” he questioned, equating this misplaced focus to betrayal.
In addition to his admonitions, President Museveni addressed the ongoing Ebola outbreak, urging Ugandans to adopt precautionary measures and avoid physical contact like handshaking. He noted his personal efforts to minimize contact during the event, emphasizing the threat posed by the virus.
During the same parliamentary session, the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker for the 12th Parliament took place. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth was elected Speaker, securing 441 votes against his rivals, Paul Mwiru (60 votes) and Norbert Mao (15 votes). Thomas Tayebwa was subsequently elected Deputy Speaker with 457 votes, defeating Nyakato Asinansi (45 votes) and Sarah Aguti (14 votes).
President Museveni congratulated the newly elected leadership, commending the transparency of the elections and encouraging all Members of Parliament to consolidate national development efforts. He also reminded attendees about the importance of preventing the spread of Ebola.
Source: State House (Uganda)