MWE Correspondent
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni have publicly asked for forgiveness from the people of Buganda and Ugandans as a whole.
The apology, delivered at a national prayer crusade in Kampala, marks a striking shift in tone from the veteran leader, who has ruled the East African nation since 1986.
Addressing a crowd of worshippers, religious leaders, and dignitaries at the Kololo Independence Grounds, the First Couple stood side by side and read from a prepared statement calling for national unity, healing, and reconciliation.
“We stand here to repent and ask for your forgiveness, especially from the people of Buganda and the entire country,” they said, their voices solemn.
“God, restore the favour we had with them from the beginning. Bring healing to their hearts, soften the pain, and reconnect us to the original vision of national unity and our commitment to the social and economic transformation of our country.”
The prayer event was organized by their daughter, Pastor Patience Rwabwogo, and came just months after increasing public scrutiny and growing discontent over the government’s long rule, especially among younger Ugandans and voters in the Central Region where Buganda lies.
The President’s rise to power followed a protracted five-year guerrilla war, during which Museveni and his National Resistance Army (NRA) drew significant support from the Buganda region. However, relations between the central government and the traditional Buganda Kingdom have since grown strained—especially over issues of cultural autonomy, land rights, and political representation.
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In her remarks, the First Lady acknowledged the sense of betrayal felt by many of their supporters.
“There has been marked laxity, negligence, and lack of diligence,” she said. “Many grassroots supporters have become angry and often feel neglected or forgotten.”
The apology has sparked a wave of responses across Uganda’s political and social media spheres. Some see it as a rare act of humility and a potential opening for genuine dialogue. Others view it as politically motivated, timed conveniently ahead of the 2026 Ugandan general election, with Museveni expected to seek another term despite growing calls for change.
Political analysts suggest the move may be aimed at regaining support in a region that has become increasingly aligned with opposition figures like Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, whose National Unity Platform (NUP) won a majority of seats in Buganda during the 2021 elections.
As the nation absorbs the First Couple’s message, attention now turns to whether the apology will translate into action—or remain a symbolic gesture. The Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has yet to issue an official response.
Ugandans, especially younger generations, continue to demand transparency, reforms, and greater accountability. For many, forgiveness may start with words—but it must be followed by meaningful change.
