Maama Janet Hails Uganda’s Democratic Maturity as President Museveni Rallies Support in Kalaki

KALAKI — First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, has lauded Uganda’s democratic progress, describing it as one of the most peaceful and exemplary systems globally.

She made the remarks on Friday while accompanying President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential Candidate for the 2026–2031 term, during a massive campaign rally held at Kalaki Primary School grounds in Kalaki District. The event drew thousands of enthusiastic supporters from Kalaki and neighbouring districts, painting the venue yellow with NRM flags and attire.

“There is no place like Uganda on earth. There are no people who do elections in peace and calm like Ugandans do,” Maama Janet said. “We must thank God for using this President and the NRM government to build such a strong foundation, and we should never take it for granted.”

The First Lady credited Uganda’s enduring peace and unity to the leadership of President Museveni and the NRM government, urging citizens to safeguard these achievements by voting responsibly in the forthcoming general elections.

“Because of this foundation, Uganda has enjoyed peace, unity, and stability,” she emphasized. “Every adult has the responsibility to protect this peace and development. When the time comes, I urge you to vote for this President and the entire NRM team so that Uganda continues to walk in peace and build a proud homeland for generations to come.”

President Museveni Reaffirms NRM’s Commitment to Peace and Prosperity

In his address, President Museveni outlined key highlights of the NRM Manifesto for 2026–2031, emphasizing that peace, security, infrastructure development, and wealth creation remain the cornerstone of Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

He reminded the crowd that the NRM has guided Uganda through over six decades of political challenges, from instability to lasting peace and stability. 

“Peace is the first and greatest contribution of the NRM to Uganda,” the President said. “For many years, this region and other parts of the country suffered under the rebels and cattle rustlers. But that is now history. The peace we have today is for the whole of Uganda.”

Museveni commended the people of Kalaki and the greater Teso subregion for their resilience during past insurgencies, particularly acknowledging the role of the Arrow Boys and the armed forces in restoring peace.

Government Projects and Infrastructure Commitments

The President also addressed concerns regarding government projects, especially reports of shoddy construction. He urged local governments to enhance supervision and ensure accountability in project delivery.

“When we fail to do our part, we are cheating ourselves,” he cautioned. “This homeland is the only one we have. If we don’t work properly, we are denying the next generation a better future.”

Museveni further revealed that funding has been secured for the Katine–Ochero Road, with the Ministry of Works already in the process of identifying a contractor. He added that plans are underway to extend the road from Ochero to Amolatar and Amolatar to Dokolo once additional funds are mobilized.

He also cited notable progress on the Soroti–Amuria–Obalanga–Otuke–Abim road corridor and confirmed that the Buyende–Kagwara–Kaberamaido ferry is operational, pending completion of new landing sites.

Addressing Service Delivery and Utilities

On electricity, President Museveni acknowledged complaints of unstable power supply in the area, attributing the problem to aging transmission lines. He assured residents that technical teams from the Ministry of Energy and Umeme would investigate and rectify the issue.

The President also highlighted significant strides in water access across Teso. In Kalaki District, 181 out of 224 villages—equivalent to 80.8% coverage—now have access to clean borehole water, while Kaberamaido District has reached 91% coverage.

To further improve water and irrigation, he announced the planned Lake Kyoga Multi-Purpose Groundwater Flow and Water Supply Development Project (Phase One), which will boost access to safe water and support agriculture in the subregion.

Call for Integrity and National Responsibility

President Museveni urged public servants and all Ugandans to perform their duties with diligence, honesty, and patriotism, stressing that national development depends on individual responsibility.

“When you are given work by government, you are doing it for yourself, your family, and those who will come after you,” he said. “Let us continue building our shared inheritance — Uganda, our homeland.”

NRM’s Ongoing Campaign: Protecting the Gains

The Kalaki rally was part of President Museveni’s ongoing campaign tour of the Teso subregion under the theme #ProtectingTheGains, aimed at consolidating peace and promoting economic empowerment through government initiatives.

Several senior NRM leaders, local officials, and community representatives attended the event, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the party’s vision of continued peace, prosperity, and transformation for all Ugandans. 

As chants of “Museveni oyina obuvumu!” (Museveni, you are courageous!) filled the air, both the President and the First Lady departed Kalaki amid jubilant crowds—symbolizing the NRM’s enduring bond with the people of Teso and the nation at large.