Africa-Press – Uganda. President Museveni has called on political leaders to rise above party labels and embrace principle-driven politics, emphasizing that national progress depends on shared programmes and ideology rather than partisan identity.
The President made the remarks during a meeting with leaders and elders affiliated with the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) from 10 districts in the Lango sub-region. The meeting took place at State House, Entebbe, on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
President Museveni, who also serves as National Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), said political cooperation should be anchored on ideas and national interests.
“The label of the party is secondary. What matters is what you support and the programmes you stand for,” he said. “It is not about NRM, UPC or DP. It is about patriotism, Pan-Africanism, and the principles that shape Uganda.”
He described the engagement as a step toward “real politics,” arguing that, like religion, politics should be grounded in beliefs and values.
“Politics should be based on clear principles. For us, it is patriotism—loving Uganda because your prosperity depends on Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy,” he said.
Drawing from his experience as a farmer, the President underscored the importance of national unity for economic growth.
“My prosperity does not depend only on my neighbours. The people who buy my milk and beef come from different parts of Uganda. That is why unity and stability are critical.”
He urged leaders to focus on addressing citizens’ real challenges rather than divisions based on identity.
“Hunger and disease have no tribe or religion. Look at people’s needs, not their identities,” he added.
President Museveni also acknowledged the need for deeper ideological engagement to help citizens better understand government policies and programmes.
“We should not just tell people to support a party without explaining why. People must understand the principles and the programmes,” he noted.
The leaders from Lango pledged to work collectively with the ruling NRM to advance the social and economic transformation of their region and the country.
Hamson Obua, NRM Vice Chairperson for Northern Uganda, welcomed the group’s decision, saying it aligns with the President’s long-standing message on unity and support for national development.
“This step of sitting together—UPC, FDC and NRM—to discuss Lango’s future is historic,” he said.
He noted that growing political maturity in the region has translated into stronger collaboration and increased support for government programmes.
“We have moved forward because of unity and clear messaging on transformation,” he said, urging leaders to sustain the momentum.
Maj. Gen. Keith Katungi, Commander of the 5th Infantry Division, thanked the President for hosting the group and commended leaders in Lango for choosing cooperation over division.
He said political actors in the sub-region have increasingly embraced dialogue and peaceful mobilisation.
“Lango is peaceful and ready to work together,” he said, adding that the collaboration among leaders reflects a shift from sectarian politics to issue-based engagement.
He also highlighted the role of security agencies in maintaining stability during previous electoral periods, noting that peace has created space for constructive political participation.
Charles Ogwal, who presented a Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the group, congratulated the President on his electoral victory and pledged continued mobilisation for peace and stability.
“We voted for peace and protecting the gains made. Lango got 84 percent in the last general elections. We are ready to work with the government to address the needs of our people,” he said.
He also outlined infrastructure priorities, including key road projects such as the Dokolo–Namasagali road, noting that improved connectivity would boost trade and livelihoods.
