In a video that has sparked widespread attention and controversy, Ugandan Speaker of Parliament, Hon Anita Among, has made startling allegations against President Yoweri Museveni, Uganda’s long-standing leader. The video, shared by X user Shimon Aine, claims that Museveni, often referred to as “M7,” has been involved in some of the most heinous acts in Uganda’s recent history.
Among’s accusations are grave. She alleges that Museveni apologized to the Baganda people but is responsible for burning a train full of people in the Teso region and orchestrating the killing of nearly 1,000 individuals in a swamp near Soroti University. These acts, she claims, were carried out by Museveni’s Banyarwanda supporters. The video, which has a duration of 138.79 seconds, includes subtitles that detail these shocking claims, leaving many Ugandans and international observers reeling.
The context of these allegations is set against Uganda’s complex political landscape. Museveni has ruled Uganda since 1986, and his regime has been criticized for authoritarian practices. The Economist Intelligence Unit rated Uganda as a “hybrid regime” in 2022, highlighting the country’s struggles with political freedom and human rights. Amongi’s accusations add fuel to the fire of discontent that has been simmering under Museveni’s long rule.
The Teso region, mentioned in the video, has a history of conflict and tension. Land disputes and ethnic violence have plagued the area, as documented in a 2015 pre-assessment report by the Teso Settlement and Re-settlement Advocacy Working Group (TESRAW). This report underscores ongoing issues of resettlement and ethnic tensions, which could provide a backdrop for the severity of the claims made by Amongi. The mention of Soroti University, a significant institution in the region, further ties the allegations to a place that has been at the center of local and national disputes.
Reactions to the video have been mixed. Some users on X express disbelief, with one stating, “I don’t want to believe that this is true though.” Others point to historical context, noting that similar claims have been made before but were suppressed. The video’s virality has reignited debates about Museveni’s legacy and the state of human rights in Uganda.
As of now, there has been no official response from President Museveni’s office or Speaker Among regarding these allegations. The lack of immediate denial or confirmation has only intensified the speculation and concern among the public.
This development comes at a time when Uganda is already under scrutiny for its human rights record. A recent report by Human Rights Watch criticized the Museveni regime for arbitrary arrests, detentions, and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals following the enactment of harsh anti-gay laws in 2023. The allegations by Among, if proven true, could further tarnish Museveni’s image both domestically and internationally.
For many Ugandans, these accusations are a painful reminder of the country’s turbulent past and the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability. The video’s circulation on social media platforms like X has ensured that the conversation is not confined to political circles but has reached the everyday citizen, prompting questions about the truth behind the claims and the future of Uganda’s political landscape.
As the nation awaits further developments, the allegations by Among serve as a stark reminder of the power of voice and the enduring quest for transparency in governance. Whether these claims will lead to a reevaluation of Museveni’s legacy or fade into the noise of political rhetoric remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the video has opened a Pandora’s box of questions about accountability, human rights, and the true cost of power in Uganda.
Important to note is that this video was taken off TikTok which has become a hub of misinformation and spread of harmful propaganda over the past couple of years. It’s always therefore vital to take note of the source of this information before wholly believing it. Besides, the video confuses Minister Betty Amongi and the Speaker Anita Among although the voice quite resembles the Speaker’s. We shall keep you updated once an official communication is provided.
