Former State Minister for Foreign Affairs Okello Oryem has said he was disappointed by losing his ministerial position during the May 2026 Cabinet reshuffle, but not by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, whom he described as family.
In an interview with NTV Uganda published on October 18, Oryem said his disappointment was over losing the job rather than a breakdown in his relationship with the President.
“I was not disappointed by President Museveni, but I was only disappointed about losing my ministerial job,” Oryem said.
Oryem, who served as State Minister for Foreign Affairs for several years, said he had repeatedly asked to remain in Cabinet, even if it meant accepting a junior position.
He also pointed to his longstanding relationship with the President as a factor in his continued service in government.
“Why do you think I remained a minister for all those years? I am family with President Museveni,” he said.
Oryem, who has been associated with Uganda’s diplomatic engagements during his time in government, also emphasised his ability to connect people with senior leaders.
“I can open any door for you to any leadership in this country. I am the locksmith, fine at opening doors,” he said.
His remarks have attracted mixed reactions on social media, with some commentators highlighting his experience and networks, while others have questioned his public focus on losing office.
The comments follow the May 2026 Cabinet reshuffle in which Oryem was dropped from his position as State Minister for Foreign Affairs.
