Barnabas Taremwa: Fighting Corruption Requires More than Speeches

On 12th May 2026, Uganda swore in its President, a leader who has served for nearly 40 years. Many citizens recognize this as a remarkable achievement, especially for the peace and stability the country has enjoyed over the decades.

Stability is important for national development, and this deserves acknowledgement.

However, many Ugandans remain deeply disappointed by the widespread corruption across the country’s leadership.

On a day when political leaders speak strongly about fighting corruption, an important question arises: how can corruption be genuinely defeated when many within the system are perceived to have benefited from it?

Fighting corruption requires more than speeches — it demands accountability, transparency, and leaders willing to reform the very systems that sustain corruption.

Ironically, today could also be described as a “corruption day” by critics of government spending.

Why should the swearing-in of a public servant become a public holiday? A president is ultimately a public servant assuming public office, not a monarch.

Critics argue that suspending business and public productivity for such an event places unnecessary costs on a country where resources are already limited and urgently needed for public services.

When we compare Uganda to other major nations, questions naturally emerge.

In South Africa, Africa’s largest and most industrialized economy, the swearing-in of a president is not treated as a national public holiday.

Similarly, in the United Kingdom, the appointment of a Prime Minister is not a public holiday. In the United States and China, leadership transitions do not generally result in nationwide work stoppages.

At a time when public resources are scarce and citizens are demanding better healthcare, education, infrastructure, and jobs, many people believe national priorities should focus on productivity and service delivery rather than ceremonial public holidays for political officeholders.

If Uganda is serious about fighting corruption, then leaders must lead by example and demonstrate fiscal discipline, accountability, and respect for public resources.

Ultimately, the real test of leadership is not how long one stays in power, but how effectively institutions are strengthened, corruption is reduced, and citizens’ lives are improved.