President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni commended a group of former National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters for their decision to renounce opposition politics and reintegrate into society. The President met the group at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, where he praised their transformation and pledged continued support to facilitate their return to productive community life.
The President applauded the converts, many of whom were previously imprisoned, stating they had recognized the dangers of what he termed “misleading opposition politics.” He expressed forgiveness and encouraged the group to become ambassadors of peace and development in their communities.
“I commend you for realizing your mistakes. Some opposition leaders misguide our youth, exposing them to unnecessary danger and even death,” he said, referring to elements within NUP and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC). “I have heard your memorandum and we will study it carefully.”
President Museveni urged the youth to focus on personal and community development by taking full advantage of government initiatives in health, education, and wealth creation.
Highlighting progress in public health, the President cited Uganda’s success in eliminating diseases such as polio and measles through immunization. On education, he acknowledged ongoing challenges in Universal Primary and Secondary Education but reaffirmed government plans to recruit an additional 50,000 teachers and eliminate illegal school fees.
On economic empowerment, President Museveni outlined four sectors where youth can create wealth: commercial agriculture, artisan skills and small industry, services, and ICT. He showcased the four-acre model farm owned by State Minister for Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, as an example of successful youth engagement in agriculture.
Programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and targeted funds for marginalized groups, including ghetto youth, boda boda riders, taxi operators, fisheries, and religious leaders were presented as vital tools for inclusive development.
“We want no one to be idle,” the President stated. “Return to your communities and utilize these programs to build a better future.”
Hon. Alice Kaboyo noted that many former opposition members and youths who once engaged in violence have since undergone rehabilitation at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi. She highlighted the formation of the NRM Cadres Bali Bali SACCO, created to improve livelihoods and promote unity, with over 20,000 reformed youths and 15,000 members of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation now aligned to the Movement’s vision.
Government leaders present at the event expressed appreciation for the President’s continued engagement with the youth and grassroots communities.
Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, State Minister for Kampala Capital City, and Hon. Alice Kaboyo thanked President Museveni for his inclusive approach.
Hon. Rosemary Sseninde, NRM Director of Mobilization, praised the President’s leadership and congratulated him on his recent nomination to run for another presidential term, describing him as the only leader capable of steering Uganda’s transformation.
Popular musician Dr. Jose Chameleone (Joseph Mayanja) also attended the event and expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his personal support during a recent illness. He pledged to mobilize support for the President in the upcoming elections.
Representatives of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation acknowledged the government’s efforts to resolve industry-related conflicts and appreciated the construction of a new taxi park. Federation chairperson Mr. Rashid Ssekindi called for increased financial support to taxi SACCOs and requested assistance in acquiring locally manufactured vehicles from Kiira Motors.
In a joint statement, the NUP converts pledged their loyalty to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and vowed to contribute peacefully and meaningfully to Uganda’s socio-economic development. They reaffirmed their commitment to mobilizing support for the government and working toward national unity and stability.
Report by Magezi Kiriinjju
