President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni publicly apologized to Ugandans for the missteps made during their 39-year reign.
Speaking during the Light Up Uganda for Jesus Crusade at Kololo Independence Grounds, the couple jointly acknowledged failures committed both personally and by those acting on their behalf.
The Musevenis expressed remorse and sought forgiveness, particularly from the people of Buganda and the broader Ugandan populace.
“We humbly take responsibility for all the mistakes made by ourselves, our agents, and representatives. We, therefore, stand here to repent and ask for your forgiveness, especially the people of Buganda and the whole country,” the couple said.
In an appeal to both God and the people of Uganda, the couple called for reconciliation and a return to the ideals that once united the nation.
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"God restore the favor that we had with them in the beginning; bring healing to their hearts, soften the hardened hearts, and reconnect us to the original vision of our national unity and unwavering commitment to social and economic transformation of our nation together,” they added.
After the ousting of Idi Amin in 1979, Museveni briefly served in transitional governments but became disappointed with the political process following the disputed 1980 elections.
In response, he formed the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and its armed wing, the National Resistance Army (NRA), initiating a guerrilla war against Milton Obote's government.
The conflict, known as the Ugandan Bush War, lasted until 1986, when the NRA captured Kampala, and Museveni was sworn in as president.
Upon assuming office, Museveni was lauded for bringing stability to a nation long plagued by coups and dictatorial rule.
He prioritized healthcare and education, leading to significant improvements in public health and literacy rates.
However, over time, Museveni's tenure has been marked by increasing authoritarianism.
He has been criticized for suppressing political opposition, manipulating electoral processes, and amending the constitution to remove term and age limits.
