Museveni Criticises Absentee Leaders, Vows Tougher Stance on Corruption

By Peterson Hiirya.

President Yoweri Museveni has criticised leaders who fail to engage with the communities they represent, warning that his new term in office will be marked by stricter accountability and a tougher approach to corruption and poor leadership.

Speaking during his State of the Nation Address at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Thursday, Museveni expressed frustration with public officials who seek facilitation to interact with citizens, saying leadership should be driven by commitment to service rather than personal gain.

The President said he often restrains his irritation over such practices by remaining silent but indicated that the time for leniency was ending.

“This term is about no more sleep, no more corruption, and no more politeness,” Museveni declared, reinforcing a message he first introduced during his inauguration.

He criticised some leaders for neglecting their constituencies and remaining in Kampala instead of maintaining regular contact with the people they were elected to serve.

According to Museveni, effective leadership requires constant engagement with citizens and a clear understanding of their needs and challenges.

Leadership Requires Genuine Concern

The President also challenged leaders to examine their motives for seeking public office, arguing that leadership should be rooted in a genuine concern for the welfare of the people.

“Don’t try to be a leader when you don’t care about the people,” Museveni said.

He stressed that public office is a responsibility that demands dedication, accountability, and a willingness to work closely with communities to improve their livelihoods.

Renewed Anti-Corruption Drive

Museveni reiterated his administration’s commitment to combating corruption, describing the vice as a major obstacle to national development and service delivery.

He pledged to intensify efforts to protect public resources and ensure government programmes deliver tangible benefits to citizens.

The President’s remarks come amid renewed calls for greater transparency and efficiency across government institutions as Uganda embarks on a new political term.

Appreciation to Voters

Museveni also used the occasion to thank Ugandans for what he described as overwhelming support for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) during the 2026 general elections.

He said the electoral victory reflected public confidence in the government’s development agenda and pledged to continue pursuing policies aimed at transforming the country’s economy and improving household incomes.

The address was formally opened by Speaker of Parliament Jacob Marksons Oboth, who welcomed the President to deliver his message to the nation and the newly inaugurated 12th Parliament.

Museveni’s speech outlined a broad agenda focused on wealth creation, industrialisation, infrastructure development, accountability, and improved public service delivery as the government begins a new five-year term.