President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. John Patrick Amama Mbabazi, and his wife, Mrs. Jacqueline Mbabazi, for their significant contribution to realigning Uganda’s trajectory, which had veered off course before the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government came into power.
“I extend my congratulations to Rt. Hon. Mbabazi and Jacqueline for their commitment to guiding Uganda back onto the right path,” he remarked.
President Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataha Museveni, made these remarks on Saturday, as Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi and Mrs. Jacqueline celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at Serena Hotel, Kampala.
President Museveni also commended the couple for maintaining a strong family bond amidst the turbulence of the resistance struggle and staying together for five decades.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by freedom fighters and praised their resilience in building families alongside their dedication to the cause.
Furthermore, President Museveni shared anecdotes of his early encounters with Rt. Hon. Mbabazi during the political turmoil of the 1970s, highlighting Mbabazi’s role in revitalizing their elite network.
He expressed gratitude to Mbabazi and others for their efforts in restoring stability and reiterated the importance of upholding the core principles of the NRM for Uganda’s progress.
In recognition of their milestone, President Museveni and Maama Janet presented Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi and his wife with 20 Friesian cows as a token of appreciation.
Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi reflected on the challenging circumstances under which he and Mrs. Jacqueline began their journey together, emphasizing their commitment to each other and the cause of resistance against dictatorship and he expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his unwavering support throughout the years.
Former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda also congratulated the couple, acknowledging their steadfast friendship and reliability.
He praised President Museveni for recognizing Mbabazi’s capabilities and entrusting him with significant responsibilities.
Mrs. Jacqueline Mbabazi expressed gratitude to God, their friends, family, and the Church for their support throughout their journey, acknowledging the challenges they faced and the strength of their bond over the years.
The celebration marked not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience and unity in Uganda’s history.