Museveni Urges NRM Leaders to Address Citizen Concerns and Combat Corruption

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni met with National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders in Greater Masaka at State Lodge, Masaka, on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, emphasizing the need to prioritize the real challenges facing citizens, expose corruption, and promote government programs designed to improve livelihoods. The meeting was organized by Masaka City Woman Member of Parliament-elect, Hon. Justine Nameere.

Focus on Real Issues, Not Political Arguments

President Museveni expressed concern that some leaders spend excessive time engaged in political debate rather than addressing the needs of the population. “It is unfortunate how some leaders waste time in Parliament talking instead of looking at the real issues and reaching the ordinary people. Leaders must expose wrongdoing and demand solutions to the problems affecting the wananchi,” he stated according to the NRM website.

Combating Corruption at the Local Level

The President warned that silence regarding corruption undermines public trust and hinders effective service delivery. “Keeping quiet about thieves and corruption in your areas is unacceptable. If leaders at the district level are corrupt and Members of Parliament fear to expose them, then the whole system rots,” he added as reported by New Vision.

Promoting Government Achievements

Museveni challenged NRM leaders to confidently communicate the government’s accomplishments, rather than shying away from potential criticism. “Some NRM leaders fear to talk about the achievements of the government because they worry about criticism from the population. This is wrong. Instead of keeping quiet, you should promote government programmes and explain what has been achieved,” he said according to the NRM website.

National Unity and the Dangers of Sectarianism

On the topic of national unity, President Museveni cautioned against sectarianism, describing it as a divisive force based on tribal and religious affiliations. “The other poison is sectarianism, dividing people based on religion and tribe. This is dangerous and we must not allow it,” he emphasized according to the NRM website.

Recognition of Justine Nameere’s Courage

President Museveni commended Hon. Nameere for her initiative in organizing the meeting, recalling her early career as an advisor and acknowledging her courage in challenging potential electoral irregularities during her recent election. He noted that she insisted on a recount when there were attempts to rig the votes, and ultimately won after the recount as reported by New Vision.

Importance of Community Cooperation

To illustrate the importance of unity, President Museveni shared a personal anecdote about his education, which was supported by cattle sales to businessmen from diverse backgrounds. He highlighted that his education was made possible through the cooperation of individuals from different communities, emphasizing that development relies on such collaboration as reported by New Vision.

Promoting Wealth Creation Programs

The President urged leaders to mobilize citizens to participate in government wealth creation programs, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Operation Wealth Creation (OWC). He stated that the NRM has consistently focused on addressing the fundamental issues affecting the people, transitioning from challenges like insecurity and lack of infrastructure to the current focus on poverty eradication as reported by New Vision.

Commitment from Hon. Nameere

Hon. Nameere expressed her gratitude to President Museveni for meeting with the leaders and providing guidance to the people of Masaka. She pledged to continue mobilizing leaders and communities to support government initiatives aimed at poverty reduction and development.