Museveni on voter bribery took center stage during President Yoweri Museveni’s address in Kituntu Sub-county, Mpigi District. Wrapping up his zonal tour under the Parish Development Model (PDM), the president warned Ugandans against selling their votes for money. He urged citizens to prioritize long-term national progress over short-term personal gain.
“Why should you exchange your power for a bribe? When someone brings you money, avoid them. You hold the power—don’t give it away,” Museveni emphasized.
His remarks come as the country prepares for the 2026 general elections. He stressed the importance of voting based on values, not bribery.
Securing Future Elections
Reflecting on the 2021 elections, Museveni claimed that opposition groups rigged 2.7 million votes. He blamed weak oversight by some National Resistance Movement (NRM) members. To stop this from recurring, he announced the introduction of biometric machines. These will ensure that each voter casts only one vote.
“Biometric voting will end rigging. No one should vote twice,” he said firmly.
This plan is designed to strengthen public trust in democratic systems while discouraging electoral fraud and manipulation.
Empowering Households Through PDM
The president tied voter integrity to economic transformation. Using success stories of Rashida Namubiru and Deborah Namutebi, he illustrated how individuals have escaped poverty through PDM support. He explained that development starts at home—and voter bribery derails that progress.
“If you return home after this meeting and find the same poverty, it’s because nothing has changed. NRM’s mission is to help you fight that poverty,” Museveni explained.
He reminded voters that services like roads and health centers are offered to everyone. However, building wealth is a personal responsibility that cannot be outsourced or bribed into existence.
Sustainable Development Without Moneylenders
Museveni noted that each parish now receives Shs100 million annually under PDM, with a target of Shs500 million over five years. If beneficiaries repay their loans on time, the revolving fund could grow to Shs800 million.
Citizens, he said, should avoid exploitative moneylenders and instead build financial resilience through parish SACCOs. Museveni emphasized that these local institutions are meant to serve as lifelines—not just for loans, but for economic independence.
“This system will eliminate the need for commercial loans. SACCOs are your future,” he stressed.
Leadership and Health for All
During the rally, 184 individuals from other political parties crossed to the NRM. Museveni encouraged unity and transparency as Uganda nears the next general elections. He asked leaders to teach the public about the nation’s journey since 1986.
He pledged to build a district hospital in Mpigi and highlighted the importance of vaccinations against major diseases, including cervical cancer. Good health, he said, is essential to national development.
“I’m now 80 years old, and I’ve never been admitted to a hospital. We lived in the bush for five years—without medical problems,” Museveni said, linking discipline and health to personal responsibility.
Reject Bribery, Create Jobs
Government jobs number around 480,000, yet the country has more than 46 million citizens. Museveni explained that wealth and employment must come from private initiatives.
He pointed to the example of Minister Fred Byamukama, whose farm employs over 26 workers earning above Shs200,000 per month. Museveni stressed that voters must elect leaders with plans—not bribes.
“A bribe today takes away your child’s future. Elect leaders who will uplift your community,” he concluded.
For more on Uganda’s political landscape, read about PFF’s candidate selection guidelines and Bobi Wine’s condemnation of youth nomination blocks. Learn more about anti-bribery efforts from KIS Uganda and read Nile Post’s coverage of Museveni’s remarks.
