Across the Kampala metropolitan area, security activity has increased sharply as authorities finalize arrangements for the inauguration ceremony. Residents have reported seeing more helicopter patrols and fighter jet movements in recent days, while major roads leading to Kololo have been placed under tighter security surveillance.
Several roads around the ceremonial grounds have also undergone renovation and beautification works, with security personnel and roadblocks deployed at key points ahead of the highly anticipated event.
While government supporters describe the preparations as necessary for a national occasion, critics argue that the spending comes at a time when many Ugandans continue to face economic challenges.
Former National Resistance Movement legislator turned government critic Barnabas Tinkasimire questioned the large-scale expenditure linked to the ceremony, saying public resources should instead be directed toward addressing citizens’ needs.
Tinkasimire argued that the President could hold a simpler ceremony similar to the modest swearing-in event conducted shortly after taking power decades ago.
“He should reduce these expensive celebrations and focus resources on implementing his manifesto and solving the problems affecting ordinary Ugandans,” he said.
However, senior officials from the ruling National Resistance Movement defended the preparations, saying the inauguration symbolizes the country’s achievements under Museveni’s leadership.
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong said the celebrations reflect what the party views as years of peace, stability, and national development.
“The celebrations show the confidence Ugandans continue to place in President Museveni,” Todwong said.
NRM youth leader Brenda Kiconco also defended the nationwide activities connected to the inauguration, arguing that they match the level of support Museveni reportedly received in the recently concluded elections.
Meanwhile, anti-corruption activist Henry Muguzi criticized what he described as continued misuse of public funds during state functions.
“There is nothing new in what we are witnessing. This has become the usual trend whenever government organizes such events,” Muguzi said.
The swearing-in ceremony is expected to attract regional leaders, foreign dignitaries, senior government officials, and thousands of supporters as Uganda begins another five-year term under Museveni’s leadership.
