President Yoweri Museveni has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the management and distribution of Shs231 billion meant for military veterans.
The funds were earmarked as Akasiimo, an ex-gratia gratuity for veterans of the National Resistance Army and other frontline struggles.
Speaking from State Lodge Nakasero during Heroes’ Day celebrations, Museveni said the money was approved as a token of appreciation.
He said the funds were meant for those who contributed to the struggle that brought the current government to power in 1986.
However, the President said many genuine and aging veterans have not received their rightful payments.
He noted that the Treasury had released the money across consecutive financial cycles. Still, he said the situation on the ground did not reflect the disbursements.
Museveni Questions Veterans’ Funds
The national celebrations focused on honoring Uganda’s liberation fighters. However, the event also turned into a call for accountability.
Addressing a televised audience and selected state officials, Museveni expressed concern over reports of corruption.
He also cited claims of “ghost” beneficiaries and bureaucratic delays within the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
“The money was released to ensure our veterans live a life of dignity, not to enrich a few individuals in offices,” Museveni stated firmly. “We are going to probe this entire allocation. Where did it go?”
The President said the Akasiimo payment remains an important obligation to veterans who sacrificed for Uganda’s peace and stability.
Officials who attended the event said the State House Anti-Corruption Unit will join specialized intelligence agencies in the probe.
They said the teams will audit payrolls and track the disbursement trail down to regional zonal levels.
Veterans’ Medical Care Under Review
Museveni also raised concern over the rising cost of medical care for veterans.
He said structural inefficiencies had created major financial leakages in the system.
“I want to thank the veterans who helped us defeat a government army that had all the weapons,” the President said. “When veterans are sick, I treat them, but I treat them in private hospitals—it is too much money. I had suggested that we use Entebbe Hospital to treat these veterans, but it seems I have not followed it up. I should do so, so that we stop squandering money.”
The President said using public health facilities could help reduce wasteful spending.
He also indicated that he would follow up on the proposal to use Entebbe Hospital for veterans’ treatment.
President Reviews Liberation Goals
Museveni used the Heroes’ Day platform to reflect on Uganda’s progress since 1986.
He said any review of the resistance movement should examine several key areas.
“When auditing the aims and achievements of the resistance, it is important to go item by item: democracy, economy, security, infrastructure, education, and of course other areas,” Museveni noted.
The President praised Uganda’s macroeconomic growth.
However, he said national economic gains have not fully translated into household prosperity for many citizens.
He pointed to grassroots wealth creation initiatives, including the Parish Development Model, as a key response.
“We have done well, and that is why the economy has expanded,” the President concluded. “The problem is no longer the supply of goods; the issue is that some people do not have enough money, which is what we have been telling you to address through wealth creation for all.”
