President-elect Yoweri Museveni has attributed his election victory to God, the National Resistance Movement (NRM), and Uganda’s security institutions, as he outlined the major priorities that will guide his next term in office.
Speaking on Sunday at his country home in Rwakitura, Kiruhura District, shortly after the official declaration of results, Museveni expressed gratitude to NRM members and leaders for their commitment throughout the campaign.
He also commended the armed forces for ensuring peace and stability during the electoral period.
The President-elect further acknowledged the contribution of religious and cultural leaders, praising them for their role in fostering unity and calm across the country.
Museveni noted that voter turnout was lower than anticipated, estimating that about 10 million registered voters did not cast their ballots. He said the NRM would undertake a thorough review to understand the reasons behind the low participation, describing it as a critical test of the party’s outreach and support. He also observed that a significant number of spoiled ballots came from NRM supporters, particularly elderly voters, an issue he said would require attention and corrective measures.
On matters of security, Museveni issued a firm warning against violence and disorder, referring to isolated incidents where armed groups attempted to interfere with the voting process.
He stressed that Uganda must remain peaceful, cautioning against actions that could destabilize the country, and noting that Ugandans do not wish to experience the turmoil witnessed in countries such as Libya.
Looking ahead to the next kisanja, Museveni said his government would implement a dual economic strategy. One pillar will focus on supporting wealth creators, such as commercial farmers, industrialists, hotel owners and investors through institutions like the Uganda Development Bank.
The second pillar, he said, will concentrate on lifting the poorest households out of poverty to ensure that every homestead becomes economically productive.
The President-elect highlighted the Parish Development Model and skilling hubs as transformative initiatives that have already restored hope in many communities.
He pledged to strengthen these programs to tackle household poverty and reduce vulnerability to political manipulation.
Museveni also outlined key social service priorities, including maintaining free education in government schools, improving healthcare delivery, and tightening supervision to ensure medicines reach health facilities.
He acknowledged public frustration over corruption and injustice within the courts and pledged stronger action to promote accountability and fairness.
He also warned leaders and contractors that road maintenance, particularly for tarmac roads would be closely monitored.
On the economy, Museveni confirmed that Uganda is entering the oil production phase and said revenues from the sector would be invested in long-term infrastructure development.
He explained that oil income would be channeled into strategic projects such as railways, power generation, and science education, emphasizing that the country must use this finite resource to build sustainable national capacity.
In his closing remarks, Museveni saluted all Ugandans, including those who supported the opposition, and called for unity, peace, and stability as the nation embarks on a new term under his leadership.
Earlier, the First Lady, Maama Janet Museveni, thanked the President, NRM leadership, religious leaders, and supporters for their contributions to the victory.
She said the outcome reflected God’s divine purpose and faithfulness and urged party members and leaders to renew their commitment to service, calling on them to work even harder in serving the people and the nation.