President Museveni delivered a powerful address at the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Heads of State and Government Summit in Kampala, emphasizing the importance of the free association of nations and people for mutual advantage on a global scale. In his extensive speech, Museveni criticized some Western democracies, labeling them as oppressors who exploit their scientific and technological advancements to indefinitely subjugate others.
Museveni warned that the oppressed would eventually catch up and defeat their oppressors, highlighting the need for respect for the freedom of everybody in the true spirit of democracy. He challenged the interference of Western powers in the affairs of other nations, questioning their commitment to democracy while imposing views through manipulation and intimidation.
The Ugandan president called for the Western world to lead by example rather than force, questioning why they had not sought influence through positive demonstrations. Museveni stressed that democracy means ensuring the freedom of all individuals and cautioned against the shallow schemes of those promoting discrimination based on race, religion, tribe, or gender.
The leaders at the NAM summit expressed concerns about the ongoing fight against the independence of poorer countries, especially in the Global South. Cuba’s Vice President, Salvador Mesa, called for support for NAM member countries facing external aggression, condemning the indiscriminate targeting of women and children in Gaza.
African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki emphasized the summit’s theme, “deepening cooperation for shared global affluence,” calling for strategic partnerships to maintain peace, security, and development. Faki also condemned Israel’s actions in Palestine, advocating for a Two-State solution for lasting peace.
President of the United Nations General Assembly session 78, Dennis Francis, highlighted the world’s fragmentation, urging NAM to strengthen its influence and address ongoing conflicts, particularly the war in Gaza. Francis expressed the UN’s dismay at the situation in Gaza, emphasizing the threat to global peace if not immediately addressed.
