Retired Maj. Gen. Gregory Mugisha Muntu, the presidential candidate of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) in the 2026 general elections, has said Uganda remains a rich country with poor citizens despite being endowed with vast natural resources because of poor governance.
While campaigning in Gweri Ward, Fort Portal North Division on Friday, Muntu attributed the contradiction to the poor governance the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). He said Uganda’s abundance in oil, fertile soils and minerals such as gold, copper and rare earth minerals has failed to translate into improved living standards for ordinary citizens because of corruption and mismanagement of public funds.
Muntu argued that the 10 trillion shillings the country loses to corruption every year would have been enough to transform Uganda into a middle-income economy.
He added that such resources should be used to improve road infrastructure, stock government hospitals with drugs, pay civil servants adequately and stimulate economic growth.
The ANT flag bearer pledged to prioritize the fight against corruption if elected president, saying strong institutions and disciplined leadership are key to unlocking the country’s full potential.
He asked residents of Fort Portal to trust him with their vote, noting that during his time in government, he served without misusing taxpayers’ money.
Muntu also urged voters to elect leaders who can effectively lobby for increased funding at the city level. He noted that although Fort Portal was granted city status in 2020, it is still operating on a budget similar to that of a municipality.
He cautioned residents against being deceived by titles, instead encouraging them to demand improved services and adequate funding that matches the city’s status.
James Bagonza, a resident of Gweri, said poor road networks, lack of clean water and unreliable electricity remain major challenges that the next president must urgently address.
Richard Aheebwa said many youths have not benefited from existing government programs and expressed hope that Muntu would prioritize fighting unemployment if elected.
Mark Asiimwe called on Muntu to focus on combating corruption, creating jobs, and improving social services across the country.
****URN****