President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has declared his new term in office as “kisanja no more sleep” as he begins another term, pledging to continue his anti-poverty drive.
Speaking shortly after taking the oath today at Kololo ceremonial grounds, Museveni noted that the term will be characterized by a relentless drive for development, describing it as a period of hard work for all Ugandans. He said the new government will ensure there is no complacency in anti-poverty efforts.
Museveni said Ugandans who have heeded his advice on poverty eradication and wealth creation have succeeded.
Reflecting on the 2026 polls, in which the National Resistance Movement (NRM) secured a commanding 71.65 percent of the vote and a significant majority in Parliament, the president congratulated the party’s Bazukulu (grandchildren) and the wider Wana-Inchi (citizens).
He extended a hand to opposition parties such as the DP and UPC for their peaceful participation but issued a sharp rebuke to those he accused of inciting violence, specifically mentioning the NUP and elements of the FDC. He called on the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) to strictly enforce the “dos and don’ts” for future election management.
Meanwhile, First Lady Janet Museveni did not show up at Kololo ceremonial grounds as the president took the oath for his next term. It was the first time since the 1996 election that Janet Kataha Museveni was missing from such a ceremony.
President Museveni was accompanied by one of his daughters, Natasha Karugire, who stood to his left as he stepped onto the dais to take the oath of office. Janet Museveni’s absence sparked widespread speculation among Ugandans and on social media.
Amid murmurs in the crowds at Kololo, the Dean of the Province of the Church of Uganda, Bishop Sheldon Mwesigwa, offered a public prayer for the First Lady’s health. Speaking with what appeared to be evident knowledge of her condition, Mwesigwa, who is also the Bishop of Ankole Diocese, declared that Janet Museveni had “healed and recovered.”
Public concern about Janet Museveni’s health had simmered for several weeks, and State House had remained largely silent, fueling rumours and a flood of unverified reports on social media.
Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Proscovia Nalweyiso was among the first officials to publicly address the matter in interviews, revealing that President Museveni himself had confirmed his wife had fallen ill but was steadily recuperating, and appealing for continued prayers from Ugandans. The absence and limited information triggered intense online debate and, in some cases, misinformation.
