President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni hailed Gen. (Rtd). Caleb Akandwanaho famously known as Gen. Salim Saleh for sacrificing his youthful days to join the liberation struggle, describing him as a symbol of patriotism and a role model for young Ugandans.
The President made the remarks during the ongoing retreat for the newly elected NRM MPs at NALI Kyankwanzi, where he laid a foundation stone for the Gen. (Rtd). Caleb Akandwanaho (Salim Saleh) School of Research and the Walter Rodney Block.
Highlighting Gen. Saleh’s contribution, President Museveni gave a detailed account of his role in Uganda’s liberation struggle.
“People like Saleh should act as good examples to you young people to show you what patriotism means and how what you do can help your country,” President Museveni said.
“Saleh joined us in the war against Idi Amin in 1976 when he was just 16 years old. He ran away from school at Kako and joined us in Tanzania together with other fighters like Ivan Koreta.
Between 1979 and 1986, he did a lot of good work, especially during the 1981–1986 war. Saleh commanded many of the big battles, including the battles of Masindi, Kabamba, Masaka, and Kampala.”
President Museveni noted that after the war, Gen. Saleh transitioned into wealth creation and economic development.
“After the war, he became very much involved in wealth creation. He is now busy with development, working with others in areas like coffee and playing a very active role in the north,” he said.
“That development in Kapeka was started by Saleh. I am very glad that this is a good idea, and I commend you.”
The President also issued a stern warning against corruption, saying those involved would face firm action.
“The corrupt are now in danger and will be dealt with. You cannot underestimate us. You will see what will happen,” he said.
He urged MPs to lead by example in the fight against corruption.
“You in Parliament are now on the frontline. You should not accept bribes. If you have problems, come and tell us, but don’t take bribes,” he emphasized.
President Museveni warned that culprits risk losing their parliamentary seats, stressing that the government will not tolerate corruption. “We are going to finish this corruption,” he said.
President Museveni also commended MPs for attending the retreat, likening it to renewing commitment and discipline.
”Christians go to church every Sunday to renew their faith, and Muslims go to the mosque many times a day. It is important that cadres also come to the seminary to renew their commitment,” he said.
On regional matters, the President emphasised the need for African unity and economic integration.
“We cannot achieve prosperity with fragmented markets, policies, and infrastructure,” he said.
He further paid tribute to African leaders such as Julius Nyerere and Benjamin Mkapa for their role in promoting the East African Community, calling for deeper integration within the bloc.
“The whole of the East African Community should move towards full integration,” he added.
