Museveni Slams Leaders Celebrating Arsenal Amidst Ugandan Poverty

President Yoweri Museveni has expressed his disapproval of politicians getting caught up in the excitement of Arsenal’s English Premier League victory, urging them instead to focus on alleviating poverty in Uganda. Speaking at the opening of the 12th Parliament, Museveni highlighted the significant funds allocated to the Parish Development Model (PDM), aimed at empowering citizens, but expressed concern that the benefits were not reaching the intended recipients.

“How can you be celebrating European clubs when your people do not have money? You can have Arsenal but first solve poverty if you are a leader,” Museveni stated, directly addressing the widespread celebrations among Ugandan Arsenal fans.

He emphasized that leaders should prioritize the economic well-being of their constituents over foreign football triumphs. The President shared a video clip of an elderly woman who had benefited from the PDM funds, illustrating the program’s potential impact when properly utilized. He warned that he would be “very, very, very rough” with leaders who neglect their duty to improve the lives of the people they represent.

Museveni issued a stern warning to ministers, threatening to dismiss anyone whose areas show no progress in poverty reduction despite the substantial government investment through programs like the PDM. He noted that billions of shillings have been channeled into these initiatives, and he expects tangible results. The President also touched upon the need for continued vigilance against Ebola, cautioning lawmakers against excessive physical contact like shaking hands and hugging during parliamentary proceedings.

The President also commented on the election of Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth as Speaker and Thomas Tayebwa as Deputy Speaker, attributing their success to the ruling NRM party’s strategy of forming broad political alliances.