Jimmy Akena Blasts Government Over 'Misplaced Priorities', Defends Obote's Legacy
The UPC president says government spending should focus on healthcare, education and citizens' welfare instead of military operations.
QFM Newsroom
By Isaac Erick Odongo
KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda People's Congress (UPC) President Jimmy Akena has accused the government of prioritising military operations and security spending at the expense of essential public services, arguing that millions of Ugandans continue to struggle with poor healthcare and education.
Speaking at Uganda House in Kampala, Akena said the government has continued to channel significant resources into security while corruption and public debt remain persistent challenges.
He argued that ordinary citizens have seen little improvement in their quality of life despite increased public spending. "The government's priorities are misplaced," Akena said, adding that greater investment should be directed towards improving healthcare, education and other basic social services rather than spending on military recruitment day in and out.
According to Akena, many children continue to suffer from preventable diseases such as malaria because government health facilities frequently lack essential medicines.
He also said many schools across the country continue to operate under poorconditions, denying learners access to quality education.
Akena also praised individuals who continue to work towards peace and stability in Uganda but criticised the government for failing to adequately recognise and support their efforts.
The UPC leader also responded to recent remarks by President Yoweri Museveni made before Parliament regarding Uganda's political history.
Akena defended the record of Uganda's former President Apollo Milton Obote, describing him as a leader who was committed to building national institutions and promoting constitutional governance. He rejected comparisons that, he said, sought to portray Obote's leadership in a negative light.
Akena's remarks are likely to add to the ongoing political debate surrounding President Museveni's comments, with UPC leaders and supporters maintaining that Obote's legacy should be judged within its historical context rather than through contemporary political narratives.
The UPC has consistently called on the government to increase investment in social services, arguing that improving healthcare, education and economic opportunities should take precedence in addressing
