KAMPALA, Uganda — Public speculation intensified in Uganda after First Lady Janet Museveni failed to appear at President Yoweri Museveni’s official swearing-in ceremony and subsequent State House dinner.
For the first time in decades, the First Lady was absent from the high-profile inauguration at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, where President Museveni took the oath of office for a new term.
Instead, the Ugandan leader arrived accompanied by his daughter, Natasha Museveni Karugire, a move that immediately triggered widespread discussion across social media platforms about the First Lady’s health and whereabouts.
Mrs. Museveni, who also serves as Uganda’s Minister for Education and Sports, has not been seen publicly since late March, increasing concern among citizens and political observers.
In April, Presidential Advisor Proscovia Nalweyiso said the First Lady had been unwell but was recovering. However, the State House has not issued a detailed explanation regarding her absence from this week’s inauguration activities.
The silence from government officials has fueled public debate, with many Ugandans calling for greater transparency over the condition of one of the country’s most prominent political figures.
During the inauguration proceedings, religious leaders attempted to ease public concern.
Sheldon Mwesigwa told attendees that the First Lady had recovered from illness, though he did not explain why she remained absent from both the swearing-in ceremony and the State House celebrations.
Her nonappearance at one of the country’s most symbolic state functions has continued to dominate public discourse as President Museveni begins another term in office.
