Amanze Chinonye
Uganda’s First Lady, Janet Museveni, was absent from President Yoweri Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, marking the first time since the 1996 elections that she did not attend the presidential inauguration, Prime Business Africa reports.
Her absence from Tuesday’s ceremony immediately sparked speculation among Ugandans and across social media platforms, with many questioning the state of her health following weeks of reduced public appearances.
President Museveni, who took the oath of office for another term, was instead accompanied by one of his daughters, Natasha Karugire, who stood beside him during key moments of the ceremony.
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Amid growing public concern, the Dean of the Province of the Church of Uganda and Bishop of Ankole Diocese, Rt Rev Sheldon Mwesigwa, addressed the matter publicly during prayers at the event.
According to Ugandan media reports, the cleric stated that the First Lady had “healed and recovered,” suggesting she had recently battled an undisclosed illness.
Uganda Radio Network and other regional outlets reported that no official medical statement had been released by State House detailing the nature of the illness. However, retired Lt Gen Proscovia Nalweyiso was quoted as saying President Museveni had earlier confirmed that his wife had been unwell but was recovering steadily, while urging Ugandans to continue praying for her.
The development follows weeks of speculation over Janet Museveni’s absence from several public engagements. Reports indicated that her last publicly known appearance was on March 21 during a fundraising event for a science block at Seeta College.
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The situation also triggered misinformation online, with Ugandan authorities reportedly arresting journalist Arnold Anthony Mukose over allegations of publishing false claims suggesting that the First Lady had died. Reports said he was later granted bail.
Janet Museveni, who also serves as Uganda’s Minister of Education and Sports, has remained one of the country’s most visible political figures and a regular presence at major state functions alongside the president.
Her absence at the inauguration therefore drew unusual public attention both within Uganda and across the East African region.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
