President Yoweri Museveni has held a reconciliation meeting with local leaders from across the Buganda region. The meeting, which notably included opponents who lost in the recent elections, focused on moving past political divisions and fostering national unity. This report details the President's message and the reactions from officials.
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The President convened the meeting at Green Valley Hotel in Mpigi District. It was organised by Eng. Joseph Sewava, the coordinator for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders in the Buganda region. The gathering brought together leaders from various levels, including specifically those who lost elections—referred to locally as "BEMYOYO"—from districts across the Greater Mpigi area.
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President Museveni, speaking without reference to political parties, asked the people to support those elected to lead them. He emphasised that the election period is over, he himself was re-elected, and now it is time for work. He stressed that leadership is a gift from God and urged everyone to rally behind the elected leaders to ensure stability and development.
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The President asked those gathered to help him further stabilise the nation. He told them to inform people in their communities and in all meetings they attend that the elections are concluded, he is the elected President, and everyone must now focus on work because leadership comes from God.
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Furthermore, President Museveni called for healing. He asked those still nursing wounds from the heated electoral contests at all levels to open up through dialogue. He then personally engaged with them, listening to what they would like to do for the people if given the opportunity, so that it can be incorporated into the plans for the new term about to begin.
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Officials at the meeting echoed the President's call for unity.
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The RDC of Butambala, Moses Dumba, stated that in Butambala, the polarisation was significant because the elections were highly competitive. However, he noted that people have now calmed down and are letting go of the bitterness. Dumba added that the NRM government greatly respects religions, unlike past regimes that used to intimidate religious leaders. He urged leaders to embrace the work President Museveni wants them to do.
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Brig. Gen. Flavia Byekwaso, the Former UPDF Spokesperson who was present, explained that the President's initiative is aimed at encouraging reconciliation and winning back the hearts of the people, especially those who were defeated.
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The meeting in Mpigi appears to be part of a broader post-election reconciliation effort by the government, focusing on mending political rifts and building a unified front for governance in the new term.
