President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has cautioned against the promotion of violence, warning that instability undermines wealth creation, scares away investment, and reverses national development gains.
Museveni made the remarks on Wednesday while campaigning at Buziga Islamic School grounds in Makindye Division, where he was accompanied by the First Lady, Maama Janet Museveni. Addressing a large and enthusiastic crowd, the President said peace and security remain the cornerstone of economic growth and social transformation.
“You cannot talk about wealth where there is chaos. Those who promote violence are enemies of wealth and progress,” Museveni said, urging residents to safeguard peace and focus on productive activities that improve household incomes.
The President reiterated the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s focus on wealth creation through key pillars such as commercial agriculture, industrialisation, and the Parish Development Model (PDM), which he said are designed to lift households out of poverty.
Museveni also cautioned the youth against being manipulated by politicians who thrive on disorder, stressing that discipline, hard work, and skills development are essential to transforming lives. He called on Kampala residents to reject actions that threaten security and instead support programmes aimed at economically empowering young people.
The First Lady, Maama Janet Museveni, echoed the President’s message, encouraging voters to value unity and stability. She emphasised the need for disciplined communities and continued support for government initiatives focused on improving livelihoods, particularly for families and young people.
Earlier, NRM National Vice Chairperson Alhajji Moses Kigongo rallied supporters to back the party’s candidates in the forthcoming polls. “Don’t waste time on other candidates; tick wherever you find the bus,” Kigongo told the crowd, urging party supporters to ensure victory for NRM flag bearers.
Speaker of Parliament and NRM Second National Vice Chairperson (Female), Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, thanked President Museveni for what she described as a successful campaign and for championing a mindset change, especially among the youth.
“We want to thank God that it has been a very successful campaign, and we thank you for creating a mindset change,” Among said.
She cited the Seven Hills youth group as a success story, noting that the group had transformed from a troubled outfit into a city-cleaning SACCO following government guidance. Among, however, appealed for improved facilitation, saying members currently earn about Shs 6,000 and are requesting an increase to at least Shs 15,000.
Among also highlighted the importance of supporting the night economy, noting that more than 70,000 people in Makindye alone depend on nighttime economic activities. She further raised concerns about persistent flooding in areas such as Katwe, Kansanga, Ggaba, and the Nakivubo Channel, calling for a lasting solution. She also proposed the relocation of Nsambya Police Barracks to pave the way for better urban development.
As Uganda counts down to polling day, Museveni’s message underscored the NRM’s emphasis on stability, security, and wealth creation as central pillars of its campaign message.
