President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged financial support to newly elected legislators while issuing a stern warning against corruption, particularly within Parliament.
Closing the 2026 NRM leaders’ retreat in Kyankwanzi, Museveni said MPs would receive facilitation ahead of their swearing-in, alongside additional support later. “I am looking at something small for your swearing-in and something else later. So, don’t pollute yourselves, it’s not necessary. We can have institutional solutions rather than corruption solutions,” he said.
The week-long retreat, held at the National Leadership Institute Kyankwanzi, brought together newly elected National Resistance Movement (NRM) legislators and NRM-leaning Independents. The discussions focused on aligning leadership priorities to protect national gains and accelerate Uganda’s transition to a higher middle-income status.
In his address, Museveni warned that corruption within Parliament weakens its constitutional oversight role and undermines national development. “I do not want to hear of corruption in Parliament. If there is corruption in Parliament, how will you control others? You are the oversight body,” he said.
He described corruption as a dangerous vice that could derail the country’s progress if left unchecked. “It will kill Uganda. It is suicide and must not be tolerated,” he stressed, cautioning MPs against soliciting bribes, especially during the budget approval process.
The President revealed that government had received reports of officials being asked to pay money to secure budget approvals, a practice he condemned as unacceptable. He warned that leaders found engaging in bribery, including in the pursuit of positions, risk disqualification.
“The corrupt are now in danger and will be dealt with. You cannot underestimate us. You will see what will happen,” he said.
Museveni urged legislators to lead by example in the fight against corruption. “You in Parliament are now on the frontline. You should not accept bribes. If you have problems, come and tell us, but don’t take bribes,” he emphasized.
He further warned that those found culpable risk losing their parliamentary seats, reiterating the government’s commitment to stamping out corruption. “We are going to finish this corruption,” he said.
During the retreat, MPs also visited Museveni’s farm in Ngoma, Nakaseke District, where they were taken on a guided tour of the expansive property. The event concluded with a campfire gathering, where delegates shared a meal and informal interactions.
Last year, there were reports that Museveni gave millions to each NRM MP to pass two controversial bills, as reported Here, There and Over There.
Each MP will also be expected to receive more money for a car, on top of juicy allowances and salaries. (See Details Here and There).
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