By Patriot Corps
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has responded to recent social media claims regarding arrests of staff at State House. Addressing the nation, particularly the “Bazzukulu” (his term for younger Ugandans), Museveni confirmed that some staff had indeed been arrested on his orders after intelligence indicated their involvement in various offences. The individuals, he noted, are facing charges in the appropriate courts, and the full facts will emerge during their trials.
However, the President took issue with the inclusion of two names in these allegations—Abu Mukasa, a staunch NRM supporter and investor, and Prossy Nalweyiso, a veteran of Uganda’s liberation struggle. He dismissed any wrongdoing by these individuals, calling the accusations against them both false and malicious.
Museveni highlighted Abu Mukasa’s role in bringing billions of dollars of investment to Uganda. He cited Mukasa’s success in securing a deal with Vittol, a multi-billion-dollar bulk fuel supplier, which was offering petroleum products at significantly lower prices than those provided by what he referred to as “parasites”—foreign and local actors whose interests undermine Uganda’s economic growth. Through Mukasa’s efforts, Uganda now benefits from cheaper fuel, and Museveni warned that parasitic elements would face repercussions if they continued their exploitative practices.
The President also lauded Mukasa for connecting Uganda with Sheikh Maktoum, a UAE investor who has brought investments in air cargo, gold refining, and agricultural exports to the country. Museveni condemned the blackmail attempts by detractors who aim to discredit such investors, often resorting to false stories and online smear campaigns to drive away potential economic opportunities.
Addressing the accusations against Nalweyiso, Museveni underscored her contributions as a long-serving cadre of the National Resistance Movement (NRM). He acknowledged that while she may not have received a high level of formal education, her patriotism and experience as a fighter in Uganda’s liberation make her a valuable asset. Drawing from Uganda’s history, Museveni reminded critics that the NRA was composed of both educated and uneducated individuals, all of whom played vital roles in overcoming Uganda’s pre-1986 challenges, including shortages of essential goods and widespread corruption.
Museveni warned Ugandans to be vigilant against those who seek to undermine the country’s progress through blackmail and misinformation. He praised Uganda’s strong economy, bolstered by increasing investments from China, India, the UAE, Europe, and local entrepreneurs, and reiterated that the country’s robust security, led by the UPDF, ensures peace and stability. Museveni assured Ugandans that the government is addressing current challenges such as unemployment and poverty, and urged them to ignore the propagandists who seek to derail these efforts.
Concluding his message, Museveni defended both Nalweyiso and Mukasa, affirming their dedication to Uganda’s growth and development. He encouraged Ugandans to embrace hard work, patriotism, and unity, dismissing jealousy and resentment, which he described as obstacles to the nation’s progress.
Signed off as “The Old Man with a Hat” and “Ssaabalwanyi” (chief fighter), Museveni reiterated his commitment to using the law to protect Uganda’s economy and its genuine investors from malicious attacks
