Minister Phiona Nyamutoro, the National Female Youth MP and Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals), has recently spoken out on the ongoing anti-corruption protests. Nyamutoro has asserted that young people involved in these protests have been misled by malicious actors.
Nyamutoro, who gained prominence in March 2024 following her ministerial appointment, acknowledged that while the fight against corruption is a noble cause, it has unfortunately been co-opted by individuals with selfish political agendas.
She expressed concern that by becoming instruments of foreign interests, some youths have inadvertently become agents of the very corruption they claim to oppose. Nyamutoro emphasized that such actions are a betrayal of patriotism.
The Youth MP also pointed out that some young protesters might have joined the demonstrations without realizing they were being manipulated by foreign agents for selfish political gains. She urged the police to investigate the suspects thoroughly and release those who were misled.
“Most patriotic leaders are particularly silent about this would-be ideal demonstration because of the disguise it bears with foreign interests. It’s unfortunate that many innocent young people are unknowingly used for political reasons that end up downplaying the genuine causes they stand for,” Nyamutoro stated. “As the President has clarified, the police should help substantiate the innocent misled ones to get released.”
She further emphasized, “The fight against corruption is one for every patriotic Ugandan and it starts by you not being corrupt or an agent of corruption.”
Recently, at least 60 Ugandan youths were arrested and remanded on charges of idleness, disorderly conduct, and being a public nuisance. These youths had stormed the streets of Kampala and attempted to march to Parliament to protest against corruption within the institution.
The protesters also demanded the resignation of Speaker Anita Among. President Museveni, who has previously questioned Among about her source of wealth but later praised her for being hardworking, has added to the confusion by defending her against UK and US sanctions over corruption allegations. His mixed messages have left Ugandans uncertain about the government’s stance on corruption.
Ahead of the protests, Museveni had warned youths against engaging in potentially dangerous activities. He now claims that the #AnitaMustResign protests and other planned anti-corruption demonstrations are being funded by foreign agents. Museveni added that he would have joined the protests himself if he were not suspicious of the source of funding and the intentions behind these movements.
