Museveni to Lyantonde leaders; Avoid politics of survival

Lyantonde – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged leaders in Lyantonde District to detach politics from personal survival, warning that many political conflicts arise when leadership is treated as a source of livelihood rather than a service to the people.

Addressing a campaign rally at Kaliro Town Council Playground, where he presented the NRM Manifesto for 2026–2031, the President said genuine leadership must be driven by service, not money.

“Politics should never be your livelihood. If you join politics because of money, you are doing the country a disservice. Separate your survival from leadership. With money or without money, you must serve,” he said.

Drawing on his experience during the liberation struggle, President Museveni reminded supporters that the foundations of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) were built on sacrifice, not personal gain.

“Who was paying us when we were in the bush? No one. Politics is about the aims of the population and how you relate with them,” he noted.

The President reiterated that peace remains the NRM’s biggest contribution to Uganda, emphasizing that it was deliberately built by rejecting sectarian politics and strengthening national institutions.

“Peace is not accidental. It came because we rejected the politics of division and built strong institutions like the army, police and judiciary,” he said.

He echoed calls for unity and inclusiveness earlier made by NRM elder Mzee Matthew Rukikaire, stressing that the party belongs to all Ugandans.

“NRM welcomes everyone—women, youth and children—because everyone is important,” he said.

On election-related violence, President Museveni issued a stern warning to anyone intending to cause chaos.

“I hear there are people planning to riot during elections. They should not dare. No one will disrupt Uganda’s peace,” he said, adding that stability has enabled generations to grow, work and prosper.

Turning to infrastructure, the President confirmed that road works had commenced on key routes, including Mubende–Kabamba–Nkonji–Ntutsi–Sembabule, with plans to work on Ntutsi–Kasagama–Lyantonde and Lyantonde–Rwamahwa–Rakai.

“There is a contractor on the ground and the work has started,” he assured residents.

On wealth creation, President Museveni cautioned that development alone does not eliminate poverty, outlining four key sectors that generate wealth: commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. He revisited the four-acre model, encouraging households to engage in at least one productive activity to escape poverty.

He cited successful farmers, including Mr. George Matongo of Ngoma, as proof that wealth creation is achievable, and said government programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga were designed to support this transformation.

Addressing unemployment, the President dismissed claims that jobs can only come from government, noting that factories now employ far more Ugandans than the public service. He also stressed the importance of markets, saying Uganda produces more than it consumes in several sectors.

President Museveni concluded by reaffirming his commitment to free education and skills training through Presidential Skilling Hubs, sharing testimonies from beneficiaries who have acquired skills, started businesses and created jobs.

The Speaker of Parliament and NRM Second National Vice Chairperson (Female), Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, described Lyantonde as a historical district whose contribution to national stability should continue to be recognised. She raised concerns over land issues at Ranch Number 7 in Kasagama and warned against encroachment on Mpumudde Forest Reserve.NRM Chairperson for Lyantonde District, Mr. Ezra Mugenyi, commended residents for maintaining peace, noting that stability has enabled government programmes to transform livelihoods.He highlighted progress under PDM and Emyooga, improvements in education, health, water and electricity, and pledged increased electoral support for the NRM.

Veteran politician Mzee Matthew Rukikaire called on residents to remain united and rally behind President Museveni, citing the area’s long-standing role in promoting national stability.

The rally was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, and thousands of supporters.