Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has made a public appearance for the first time in weeks, ending widespread speculation about his health.
The 81-year-old head of state addressed a public rally at Paridi Stadium in Adjumani on Monday, October 20, effectively dismissing concerns of his well-being ahead of the January 2026 General Elections in the country.
During the rally, Museveni spoke using his typical vigour and assertiveness as he pointed out some of Uganda's achievements during his tenure.
“I thank the people of Adjumani for the warm welcome. As I conclude engaging our people in West Nile, I submit that there’s no question or fear of contradiction on these facts. I thank the people of Pakwach, Nebbi, Zombo, Obongi, Madi-Okollo, Arua, Koboko, Yumbe, Moyo, Terego, Maracha, and Adjumani for the warmth and support. Continue supporting NRM, and we shall do even more," he stated.
Museveni's prolonged absence from public events had initially sparked rumours and concerns about his well-being.
Last week, photos of the president made rounds on social media, suggesting he had been taken ill and was reportedly hospitalised in Uganda.
Rumours of Museveni's whereabouts were on overdrive on Sunday, October 19, particularly after he missed the State burial of Kenyan former Prime Minister Raila Odinga alongside his Tanzanian counterpart, Samia Suluhu.
Museveni, however, sent a delegation led by Ruhakana Rugunda, the former Prime Minister and Special Envoy, and John Mulimba, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Cooperation to mourn Raila.
In his condolence message, Museveni described Raila as a distinguished statesman whose vision cut across Africa.
In his appearance today, today, Museveni appeared his normal self, taking questions from the members of his party and addressing a wide variety of questions. He walked from his car when he arrived on the grounds, and later addressed the crowd from a speacialy designed car with while standing.
Museveni’s remarks come days after Uganda’s electoral commission confirmed that he will be on the January 2026 presidential ballot, extending his nearly 40-year hold on power. In June, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) endorsed him as their flagbearer, effectively confirming the continuation of his political journey.
Ahead of the presidential polls, Museveni's campaign armour has been highlighting Uganda's economic growth under his leadership. In a recent post on X, he claimed GDP had doubled from USD 34 billion to USD 66 billion in the last five years. He also pledged to push that figure to USD500 billion within the next term, banking on continued investment and political stability.
Uganda is set to head to the polls on January 12, with Museveni expected to face renewed pressure from opposition leaders, particularly popular musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine.
Bobi Wine was also cleared to run for the presidency in September and is set to be one of Museveni's biggest threats at the ballot, particularly after pushing him till the end in 2021.
