In a historic first for Uganda’s political arena, President Museveni, who has held power for 39 years and the First Lady, who also serves as Minister of Education and Sports, publicly sought forgiveness from the Ugandan people. The apology came during a prayer session on Sunday, May 25, held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala. The event was organised by their daughter and preacher, Patience Museveni Rwabwogo.

“For all the mistakes made by ourselves, our agents, and representatives, we humbly take responsibility. We stand here to repent and ask for your forgiveness, especially the people of Buganda and the entire nation,” said President Yoweri Museveni and his wife, Janet Museveni.

The President acknowledged failures in leadership, including corruption and human rights abuses committed by state agents under his watch. This marks a significant departure from his usual posture, as international human rights organisations have long accused Museveni’s administration of abuses and authoritarianism.

“As the top leaders of the Movement, we humbly take responsibility for all the mistakes made by ourselves, our agents, and representatives. We therefore stand here to repent and ask for forgiveness,” they declared.

President Museveni also specifically addressed the people of Buganda, a once cordial relationship that deteriorated after tensions with the Kingdom’s leader, Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. These tensions escalated into civil unrest and the arrest of over 500 people, according to BBC Africa.

In his closing prayer, Museveni asked for spiritual reconciliation: “God restore the favour we had with the people in the beginning. Bring healing to their hearts, soften their hardened hearts, and reconnect us to the original vision of national unity.”

At 80, Museveni has signalled his intention to seek another five-year term in office. However, youth groups across Uganda have launched a spiritual protest, declaring a one-month prayer and fasting campaign to seek divine intervention for his resignation.