President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today met with leaders from the Acholi sub-region representing various political parties at State House, Entebbe.
The meeting, held amid rising political tensions and growing calls for national unity saw the leaders reaffirm their commitment to Museveni’s long standing ideology of prioritizing “politics of interests” over “politics of identity.”
President in his characteristic tone, emphasized that Uganda’s prosperity pivots on unity and economic empowerment rather than tribal or ethnic divisions.
Museveni, who fondly refers to the country’s youth as “Bazzukulu” (grandchildren) took to social media to announce the engagement.
His message loaded with historical and political weight underscored a recurring theme in his governance shifting Uganda’s focus from ethnic based politics to national interest driven leadership.
Acholi sub-region has historically been a stronghold for the opposition particularly the National Unity Platform (NUP), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC). However, today’s meeting saw leaders from multiple political factions a rare occurrence in Uganda’s often deeply divided political landscape.
Museveni’s remarks suggest that the dialogue focused on economic prosperity, national stability and the rejection of divided tribal politics.
The timing of this meeting is crucial. With the 2026 general elections looming, alliances are being forged and political camps are re-organising their strategies.
Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, has long positioned himself as a unifier often leveraging regional dynamics to solidify his political base.
This latest meeting, bringing together leaders from the opposition and government under the umbrella of “national interests” could be part of a broader strategy to maintain influence in regions that have historically been politically unstable.
Acholi sub-region has experienced conflict, displacement and socio-economic challenges has often been a battleground for political supremacy.
While Museveni’s message of unity may resonate with many Ugandans, opposition argue that the true test lies in actions, not words.
If Uganda is to truly embrace the “politics of interests,” some leaders believe that it must first address concerns of political freedoms, opposition suppression and security forces’ conduct.
The meeting with the Acholi leaders might be a step toward fostering unity in the political spectrum.
