President Museveni Says He’s The Original Ghetto President

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has stirred an online conversation following his revelation that he’s a ghetto youth.

The President made the revelation while addressing a section of youth leaders at State House Entebbe. The meeting was particularly attended by leaders of SACCOs within the ghettos of Kampala City.

Museveni rubbished claims that his recent interest in the ghetto is attributed to the rise of political nemesis Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. Ssentamu, alias Bobi Wine, grew up in the ghettos of Kamwokya, a Kampala suburb. It was from there that he honed his musical talent, taking him to the pinnacle of the Ugandan music industry. While at the pinnacle of Ugandan music, he referred to himself as the Ghetto President.

However, President Museveni took a jibe at this, telling the youth leaders that he was the original ghetto president. Kyagulanyi now leads the National Unity Platform, the leading opposition party to the Museveni presidency.Museveni also pledged his NRM’s commitment to uplifting the lives of ghetto dwellers. He reminded them of the significant role they played in Uganda’s liberation.

He urged the youths to hold their leaders accountable and demand the resources and support meant for them.

“Original” Ghetto President

“The problem of the ghetto people started when the educated elite failed to engage effectively with the uneducated. You should hold your leaders accountable. Additionally, always demand the resources and support that is meant for you. NRM prioritizes ‘politics of interest’ that benefit the people.” Mr. Museveni said.

The President also tasked the youth to engage in government programs to get out of poverty. He particularly encouraged them to join the Parish Development Model. He also fulfilled his shs 1.2 billion pledge for each of the 12 SACCOs in the Kampala Metropolitan Area.

In March 2022, Brig Gen Christopher Dhamulira, with President Museveni’s support, launched the ghetto project to empower underprivileged youth. The initiative focused on electing local leaders and was officially launched in August 2022. It then aimed to organize youth into SACCOs to ensure effective use of aid.