Is President Museveni Sick? What Illness does He have? How is His Health?
by A N Rahul
Updated Jun 12, 2023
Is President Museveni Sick?
President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently in isolation. Despite describing his infection as mild, he remains committed to fulfilling his duties while undergoing treatment. The announcement came from Diane Atwine, the permanent secretary at the health ministry, who reassured the public that the President is in good health and adhering to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for COVID-19 cases.
The suspicion arose after President Museveni experienced mild flu-like symptoms following his State of the Nation address at the parliament's grounds. He had previously undergone three tests, two of which were negative while waiting for the results of the third. Throughout the pandemic, Uganda implemented strict containment measures, including curfews, closures of businesses and schools, and border shutdowns.
However, the country fully reopened in February 2022. Despite being vaccinated against COVID-19, President Museveni has consistently worn a mask in public, maintained social distancing, and conducted official duties while adhering to safety guidelines.
About President Museveni
Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, born on August 15, 1944, in Ntungamo, Uganda, hails from a Banyankole family that traditionally engaged in cattle herding. He grew up alongside his brother, Calbe Akandwanaho, and sister, Violet Kajubiri. Museveni received his education at Kyamate Elementary School, Mbarara High School, and Ntare School. It was during his high school years that he underwent a spiritual transformation and became a born-again Christian.
Museveni assumed the presidency of the Republic of Uganda on January 29, 1986, following a successful five-year liberation struggle. His tenure as president is generally regarded as instrumental in bringing stability to the country after enduring periods of war and frequent uprisings. Throughout his presidency, Museveni has faced significant challenges, including the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and rebellions, primarily in the northern regions of Uganda. Despite these challenges, he has endeavored to lead the nation towards progress and development.
What illness does President Museveni have?
President Museveni has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently in isolation. He has described his infection as mild and has expressed his intention to continue fulfilling his duties while receiving treatment. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, born on September 15, 1944, is a Ugandan politician and retired military officer who has served as the 9th and current President of Uganda since January 26, 1986. He gained prominence by leading rebellions alongside Tito Okello and Bale Travor, which resulted in the overthrow of Ugandan presidents Milton Obote and Idi Amin before assuming power in 1986.
In the 1990s, Museveni was praised by the Western world as part of a new generation of African leaders. However, his presidency has been marked by controversial actions and events. These include the implementation of anti-gay legislation, involvement in conflicts such as the First Congo War and the Rwandan Civil War, and addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by the Lord's Resistance Army insurgency in Northern Uganda. Moreover, constitutional amendments were made in 2005, removing presidential term limits, and in 2017, eliminating the presidential age limit.
How is President Museveni health?
President Museveni's health is reported to be in good condition despite testing positive for COVID-19. Uganda's Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Diana Atwine, confirmed that the President remains robust and is able to carry out his duties while adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
The President had experienced mild flu-like symptoms, particularly in his right nostril, prompting him to contact his doctors. After undergoing three tests, including one rapid test and two PCR tests, it was determined that one of the PCR tests came back positive for COVID-19.
As a precautionary measure, President Museveni traveled separately from his wife when he delivered the State of the Nation address at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala. During his speech, he revealed that he was suspected of having the virus and later confirmed his positive diagnosis.
Following his diagnosis, President Museveni entered into self-isolation in Nakasero, Kampala. He has delegated his duties for Thursday and Friday to Prime Minister Robinah Nabanjja.
President Museveni's infection came as a surprise to many, as he has been known to be cautious in his interactions since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. He had recently stopped wearing face masks due to allergic reactions in his eyes and throat, which he had experienced during the elections.
This is the second time in the last 53 years that President Museveni has had to take leave from his presidential duties. The previous instance was due to sinus-related issues, during which he took a rest at Mweya.
Is President Museveni Sick-FAQs
Yes, President Museveni has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently in isolation. Although his infection is described as mild, he is receiving treatment while continuing his duties.
President Museveni is in good health despite testing positive for COVID-19. The permanent secretary at the health ministry, Diane Atwine, confirmed that he is adhering to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for COVID-19 cases and continuing his responsibilities.
President Museveni experienced mild flu-like symptoms after delivering a State of the Nation address. As a precautionary measure, he underwent three tests, with two initially showing negative results while awaiting the outcome of the third test, which ultimately came back positive.
Uganda implemented strict containment measures during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, including curfews, closures of businesses and schools, and border shutdowns. However, the country fully reopened in February 2022. Despite being vaccinated, President Museveni has consistently followed safety guidelines, wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and conducting official duties in adherence to the recommended protocols.