President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today addressed thousands of supporters at Apac Booma Grounds, retracing the journey of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), highlighting progress under his leadership, and rallying Ugandans to embrace household wealth creation as the next phase of transformation.
The President explained that what is now known as the NRM has been active for over six decades, beginning with youth involvement in the Democratic Party, UPC, and Kabaka Yekka, before forming independent study groups in the 1960s. When Uganda descended into turmoil under Idi Amin, he said, they took up arms as FRONASA to liberate the country.
Museveni noted that NRM’s contribution rests on nine guiding points, but singled out three as central: peace, development, and wealth.
On peace, he reminded Ugandans that the country was once ungovernable due to sectarianism. “The NRM rejected divisions of tribe, religion, and gender. We built unity, patriotism, and inclusivity. That is why Uganda today has a strong army, firmly rooted across all regions,” he said.
Turning to development, the President pointed to infrastructure expansion across the country, including roads, electricity, schools, and health centres. He highlighted improved services in Lango and pledged that the government would continue upgrading health facilities while using oil revenues to accelerate investment.
He, however, stressed that wealth creation remains the missing link. “At night you don’t sleep on the road, you sleep in your house, and poverty will be waiting for you there,” Museveni said, urging citizens to embrace the Parish Development Model (PDM), which allocates Shs 100 million annually to each parish. He cited success stories such as Apio from Lira, who turned a small loan into a farming business, and Rose Akoi from Kole, who invested in livestock to grow her income.
Announcing new manifesto proposals, the President said the government will provide additional funds for parish leaders, establish a dedicated fund for unemployed university graduates, and support religious and cultural leaders through SACCOs. “Life is not a game where some are players and others are spectators. Everyone must be a wealth creator,” he emphasised.
Museveni concluded with a rallying call to the people of Apac: “Vote for the old man with a hat. The next phase will sustain peace, deepen development, and ensure every household participates in wealth creation.”
Vice President Jessica Alupo reinforced the call, urging residents to take advantage of PDM and Emyooga.
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among praised the President’s role in transforming Apac and pledged support for a Skilling Hub in the district to empower the youth.
Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua said Apac had already endorsed Museveni, citing his proven record of peace, unity, and development.