President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reiterated his reasons for remaining in power and his intention to do so for the foreseeable future.
In a recent speech delivered in western Uganda, the President expressed his confusion regarding the calls from Ugandans for him to step aside.
Museveni stated that his decision to stay is not due to a lack of alternatives, but rather a perception he holds about the capabilities of Ugandans.
He likened his efforts to guiding the populace to that of pushing a wheelbarrow, suggesting that he believes they are unable to manage their own affairs effectively. Consequently, he feels it is unwise to relinquish control to what he describes as a group lacking in motivation.
“I frequently observe you suggesting that I should leave; however, I question where I am expected to go. Your lack of progress while I remain present is evident, as I find myself having to push you forward like a wheelbarrow.
Thus, I ponder your situation should I decide to depart. How can I entrust Uganda to a group of unmotivated, lazy and useless individuals?”
This is not the first instance in which the President has criticized Ugandans for their perceived laziness and ineffectiveness. At one point, Museveni remarked that Uganda is a remarkably peaceful nation with ample resources, where even the least industrious individuals manage to survive due to their ability to evade responsibility and innovation.
It is important to recognize that Museveni came to power in 1986 after toppling the Obote II administration through armed conflict. Despite his assertions that Africa’s challenges stem from leaders who cling to power for too long, the President has contradicted his own statements.
He is poised to mark 40 years in office next year. With intentions to seek re-election and being the frontrunner for victory, Museveni is on track to have governed Uganda for 46 years by 2031, positioning him among the longest-serving leaders in African history.
In the meantime, numerous Ugandans on social media expressed their discontent with his comments, labeling him a narcissist. One user remarked that..
“Typical narcissist behavior. And you have to remember, most narcissistic behavior is really rooted in an inferiority complex rather than the projected savior behavior – look at me I am the best thing that’s ever happened to this country.
When someone consistently sees the need to call others useless, it is often because they themselves are consumed by the fear they their below par performance and incompetence will be exposed.”
Jjaja akoze atya? 😳😳
Mbu the President can’t retire because he has seen how useless Ugandans are and that he pushes those he works with like a wheelbarrow.
Is this where @norbertmao got the wheelbarrow analogy from? 😳#BakozeBatya pic.twitter.com/tjLe82omFP
— Dr. Bireete Sarah (@SarahBireete) February 20, 2025
