In a sharp political pivot, former Ugandan ambassador to Canada, Joy Ruth Acheng, has publicly denied ever being part of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), despite years of service under President Yoweri Museveni’s government.
Speaking at a rally in Kole District to support Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) president Jimmy Akena, Acheng declared her full return to the UPC and emphasized that her past diplomatic role did not signify party allegiance.
“I just want to assure you—I have never been yellow,” Acheng told the crowd, referencing NRM’s party color. “I worked for yellow when I was appointed ambassador because I respected authority, not because I belonged.”
While serving in Ottawa, Acheng was often viewed as a vocal supporter of the Museveni administration.
She frequently appeared at partisan events and openly praised the president, drawing criticism from political observers and Ugandans in the diaspora who accused her of overstepping diplomatic neutrality.
But Acheng insists her conduct was rooted in patriotic duty, not partisan loyalty.
“Even when I was kicked out of Canada, I was defending my President and my country, as an ambassador should,” she said.
Acheng’s diplomatic tenure ended abruptly in 2020 after the Canadian government declared her persona non grata over what was widely reported as “diplomatic misconduct.”
Though the exact reasons were never officially disclosed, sources pointed to alleged breaches of diplomatic protocol.
Despite this setback, Acheng maintains that she served with distinction.
“The Minister who appointed me knew I was UPC. Some NRM members opposed it, but I served diligently,” she said.
Now firmly back in her political home, Acheng has declined a new diplomatic post reportedly offered by the government and confirmed she will be contesting for the Kole Woman MP seat in the 2026 general elections.
“I am back to fight for my people,” she declared, drawing applause from the audience.
Acheng’s return injects fresh energy into the UPC’s efforts to reclaim political ground, particularly in northern Uganda, where the party once commanded strong support.
Her move also reignites conversations around political loyalty, the blurred lines between public service and partisan allegiance, and the ethical responsibilities of diplomats.
As Uganda edges closer to the 2026 elections, Acheng’s narrative—of duty, expulsion, and political homecoming—could become a powerful symbol of resistance against co-opted loyalty in government service.
