Kampala,
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised Uganda’s Armed Forces, Security Forces, and the general public for their role in preventing a planned demonstration on Tuesday, which he described as having “two bad elements.”
In a public address, President Museveni emphasized that the demonstration had foreign backing aimed at meddling in Uganda’s internal affairs. He linked this interference to historical grievances, including slave trade, colonialism, and economic exploitation by foreign entities. “All those involved should know that Uganda is not a neo-colony where those shallow schemes can be deployed,” he asserted.
The second troubling aspect, according to the President, was the demonstration’s intentions. Museveni claimed that some of the demonstration’s organizers and participants had sinister plans against the Ugandan people, details of which would be revealed during court proceedings. He noted that while some participants might have been unaware of the foreign funding and harmful plans, they should have heeded police advice to avoid participating.
President Museveni underscored his support for genuine, peaceful, and patriotic demonstrations, noting his own participation in an anti-corruption march organized by Lt. Col. Edith Nakalema in 2019. He emphasized the importance of coordinating such events with police to avoid disruption and ensure safety. Reflecting on the 2019 event, he said, “If it was a patriotic, anti-corruption, peaceful demonstration, coordinated with the Police, I would have been the first to join.”
He advised that future demonstrations should avoid heavily populated areas and instead be organized in venues like the Kololo ceremonial grounds, currently under repair, to prevent disrupting economic activities in busy suburbs.
The President also issued a stern warning to those receiving foreign funds to report their sources to the Minister of State for Ethics, assuring them of no arrests if they come forward voluntarily. “Our interest is to immunize Uganda against the schemes of the imperialists and their agents,” he stated.
Museveni highlighted that despite his earlier public advice against the demonstration, organizers proceeded with their plans. He warned Ugandans to avoid such “mistake makers” and assured them that the forthcoming court evidence would be revealing.
In his closing remarks, President Museveni expressed gratitude that the demonstration was thwarted without bloodshed and reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption. “The fight against corruption is in my hands. I just need evidence, and action will be taken,” he declared.
He concluded by reaffirming his leadership in this new struggle against corruption, comparing it to past victorious battles. “We fought the bigger war. We shall win this one also,” he said.
