In a rare and emotionally charged moment, President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni publicly asked Ugandans for forgiveness—acknowledging decades of political failures, neglect, and betrayal. But while their words struck a spiritual tone, the implications were unmistakably political.
Held at Kololo Independence Grounds during a national evangelical convention led by their daughter, Pastor Patience Rwabwogo, the public confession came as Uganda edges closer to the 2026 general elections.
This was no ordinary prayer—it was a calculated gesture with deep political resonance.
“We acknowledge that we’re human and have made mistakes,” the Musevenis said. “As top leaders of the Movement, we humbly take responsibility for all the mistakes made by ourselves and our representatives.”
Their message struck home in regions like Buganda, Acholi, Luweero, and Eastern Uganda—areas with long memories and unresolved grievances.
Buganda, in particular, has often clashed with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), especially in recent elections.
Addressing Buganda directly, Janet Museveni asked for forgiveness: “There’s been laxity, negligence, and a lack of diligence… Many grassroots supporters feel angry and abandoned.”
In Acholi, where people endured decades of war and displacement, the message recalled years of pain.
“People lived in IDP camps. Families and clans were broken. We take full responsibility. Forgive our failures,” the statement read.
The same tone was echoed in Luweero—the cradle of Museveni’s revolution. “You sacrificed everything. But we became lax and inattentive. Some feel used and forgotten,” the First Couple admitted.
Eastern Uganda, too, heard confessions of leadership failures, with an added sting: the people were partly blamed for resisting government programmes—an excuse that sparked fresh criticism.
Despite the religious framing, analysts see this as a political recalibration.
“It’s clearly an election strategy,” said political analyst Godber Tumushabe. “Museveni repented to God, but Ugandans want action—not symbolism.”
Dr. Emmanuel Dombo, Director of Communications for the NRM, disagrees. “This was a bold and humble act from a long-serving leader. It should be praised,” he said. “Spiritual repentance is a first step toward national renewal.”
But Tumushabe sees it differently: “This should have happened at State House—not Kololo. Ugandans deserve direct accountability, not a sermon.”
The divide is deeper than location. It’s about trust and the blurred line between church and state. Religious leaders who once stood as moral arbiters now face growing scrutiny for cozying up to power.
“Why would a bishop accept a government car when their local hospital lacks ambulances?” Tumushabe asked.
Many Ugandans now demand more than words. In Luweero, an elderly veteran said: “We appreciate the apology. But let it show in roads, clinics, and jobs.”
Both Dombo and Tumushabe agree on one thing—Uganda stands at a crossroads. The repentance may reflect personal humility, but it does not erase years of mistrust. It must be followed by action, reform, and measurable change.
“My prayer is that God touches Museveni’s heart,” Tumushabe said, “and he puts Uganda above the NRM.”
As 2026 draws near, the question remains: will this be the beginning of true national healing—or just another chapter in Uganda’s long political theatre?
