President Yoweri Museveni has warned newly-elected Members of Parliament who subscribe to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) against corruption and indiscipline, urging them to embrace integrity, ideological clarity, and a strong sense of responsibility as they assume leadership roles.
Speaking during the opening of the NRM leaders’ retreat at the National Leadership Institute Kyankwanzi on Wednesday, Museveni congratulated the legislators on their electoral victory but reminded them that leadership comes with higher expectations and accountability.
“Your election is a testament to the trust the people have placed in you,” Museveni said, noting that while the party registered significant success, there were missed opportunities due to internal weaknesses that must be addressed going forward.
The President emphasized the distinction between being a follower and a leader, describing the newly-elected MPs as the “priests” of the NRM who must deeply understand and guide others on the movement’s ideology and mission.
He explained that effective leadership within the NRM is anchored on three key pillars—ideology, philosophy, and strategy—which he likened to diagnosis, understanding human behavior, and execution respectively. Museveni urged the leaders to study party literature to strengthen their grasp of these principles.
Turning to governance challenges, Museveni identified corruption as a major threat to service delivery and national development. He cautioned MPs that engaging in corrupt practices would not only undermine institutions but also erode public trust.
“Corruption will not be tolerated. It is not just a legal issue; it is a moral failure,” he said, describing it as “a form of cowardice” driven by the desire for dishonest gain.
He further warned that corruption fuels poor service delivery, which continues to be a concern among citizens, and called on leaders to set a positive example by upholding accountability in public office.
On discipline, Museveni stressed that even the best policies and strategies would fail without personal discipline among leaders. He urged MPs to exercise self-control, avoid destructive habits, and remain focused on their national duties.
“Discipline is not optional—it is a cornerstone of successful leadership,” he said.
The President also highlighted the NRM’s historical mission of achieving prosperity for all, noting that Uganda’s progress has been driven by the private sector, peace, and stability. He outlined key sectors critical to economic transformation, including agriculture, small-scale industries, services, and information and communication technology (ICT).
Museveni encouraged leaders to promote wealth creation and support citizens engaged in productive activities such as farming, trade, and entrepreneurship.
Drawing from personal experience, he underscored the value of honest work, recounting how he built his wealth gradually without relying on corruption. He urged MPs to take pride in integrity, warning that dishonest leaders live in constant fear of exposure.
“You should strive for the pride that comes from honest work,” he said.
The President also cautioned against ideological disorientation, warning leaders not to prioritize sectarian interests such as tribe or religion over national unity. He noted that such divisions have historically caused conflict and weakened state institutions.
He called on MPs to focus on shared national goals and work collectively towards sustainable development and prosperity.
The retreat is expected to equip NRM leaders with deeper ideological grounding and strategic direction as they prepare to deliver on their mandate to the Ugandan people.
SG Todwong used the occasion to present to Mr Museveni about 49 Independent MPs who have agreed to work with the ruling Party.
Present at the function was Vice President Jessica Alupo, Speaker of Parliament and NRM National Vice Chairperson (Female) Anita Among, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Members of the Central Executive Committee, and NRM Secretariat Senior Officials led by Secretary General Rt Hon Richard Todwong among others.
In attendance was DP President General Norbert Mao who is also the Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister.