KAMPALA — Thousands of supporters of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni gathered at Kololo Independence Grounds on Friday for a celebratory rally marking his victory in the January presidential election.
The event, dubbed “Yoga Yoga Jajja,” was organised by Aminah Mukalazi, whom Museveni described as his daughter. The rally drew supporters from across Kampala and nearby districts who turned up in yellow party colours, singing and dancing in celebration of the President’s seventh term in office.
Museveni attended the gathering with First Lady Janet Museveni, thanking Ugandans for the support that returned him to power with 71.65 percent of the vote, according to official results.
“I thank God for this victory and for all the victories He has given us over the last 55 years since 1971,” Museveni told supporters. “We have been in the struggles for a long time and God has always granted us success.”
The President used the occasion to urge Members of Parliament to back government programmes aimed at lifting more Ugandans out of poverty, particularly the Parish Development Model.
“In this new kisanja, I encourage Members of Parliament to support the budget so that we can strengthen programmes that help our people enter the money economy,” he said.
Museveni also called on communities to actively participate in the programme by forming parish committees and accessing government funds intended to support small-scale economic activities.
“To all Ugandans above 18 years, elect a committee that is agreeable and engage in the Parish Development Model. Access the funds and follow them up. We must all enter the money economy, including the remaining 30 percent still outside,” he added.
During the rally, Thomas Tayebwa pledged Parliament’s support for government efforts aimed at fighting poverty and corruption.
Organisers said the gathering was meant to celebrate the election victory and mobilise continued support for government programmes under the ruling National Resistance Movement.
The event comes amid ongoing political debate following the January elections, with opposition groups raising concerns about alleged irregularities in the electoral process.
Despite the criticism, the rally showcased strong enthusiasm among ruling party supporters as Museveni begins his new term in office.
