President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the NRM presidential candidate, on Tuesday urged residents of Amudat District in the Karamoja Sub-region to maintain their strong support for the National Resistance Movement (NRM), crediting the party for restoring peace, stability, and development in the area.
Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, addressed thousands of enthusiastic supporters at a rally in Amudat Town.
The First Lady thanked residents for their consistent loyalty to the ruling party, noting that Amudat has always voted overwhelmingly for the NRM.
“Thank you for proudly voting NRM almost 100%. We celebrate Amudat and Karamoja for that vote.This time, let’s ensure Amudat votes 100% for the President and 100% for the NRM team.”,she said .
She urged the community to continue supporting the government’s development agenda, emphasizing that the NRM belongs to the people.
“The NRM government has worked hard to make Karamoja peaceful like any other part of Uganda. Let’s protect our gains and take another leap forward for the poor of Uganda, including Karamoja,” she added.
When he took the podium, President Museveni praised Amudat for its remarkable transformation from insecurity to peace, calling it a “miracle” that showcases the success of NRM policies.
“If you want to see miracles in Africa, come to Karamoja and Amudat.The population has grown from 20,000 to over 200,000 I thank God for being part of that miracle.”,he said.
He also reflected on the NRM’s 40-year journey, outlining key achievements including peace, improved infrastructure, and better representation. Museveni recalled the challenges of disarming the Karamojong, saying it was necessary to ensure national security.
“Some said we couldn’t disarm Karamoja unless we disarmed Turkana, Pokot, and others. But I told them I’m not here to disarm Africa I’m here to disarm my people,” he said.
The President further revealed that Uganda had barred Turkana herders from crossing into the country after they killed three Ugandans and that he had asked Kenyan President William Ruto to ensure compensation for the victims’ families.
On development, Museveni cited progress in roads, electricity, and water access, saying these investments are crucial to transforming Karamoja’s economy.
“We now have electricity, telephones, and roads reaching Nakapiripirit and soon Amudat. We’ve built valley dams and solar irrigation systems to support livestock and crops,” he noted.
However, he expressed concern that only 18 percent of Amudat residents have access to clean water and directed the Minister for Karamoja Affairs to address the issue urgently.Before concluding, Museveni cautioned local leaders against neglecting infrastructure maintenance.
“I have warned the Minister of Works and the Minister of Local Government no major road in Karamoja should ever become impassable again,”he said .
