The First Lady, Janet Museveni, was notably absent from the Kololo ceremonial grounds as President Yoweri Museveni took the oath of office for another term, marking a rare break in tradition that stretches back to the 1996 elections.
Her absence stood out as President Museveni arrived for the swearing-in ceremony accompanied by his daughter, Natasha Karugire, who was seen standing on his left side as he proceeded to the dais to take the oath.
The First Lady’s non-attendance quickly became a subject of public discussion, drawing speculation both at the venue and across social media platforms.
During the ceremony at Kololo, moments of concern were briefly addressed in a public prayer led by the Dean of the Province of the Church of Uganda, Bishop Sheldon Mwesigwa, who also serves as Bishop of Ankole Diocese.
In his remarks, he assured the congregation that Janet Museveni had recovered, a statement that was met with applause from sections of the audience.
The bishop also expressed gratitude for the First Lady’s long-standing support for her husband throughout the campaign period and entrusted the entire First Family to divine protection.
Questions about Janet Museveni’s health had circulated for weeks prior to the event, with State House offering limited official communication, a gap that fueled rumors and widespread online speculation.
Earlier, retired Lt Gen Proscovia Nalweyiso had publicly acknowledged the situation, stating that President Museveni had confirmed his wife had been unwell but was recovering, while urging the public to remain calm and continue praying for her.
The uncertainty surrounding her condition also led to misinformation online. Journalist Arnold Anthony Mukose was arrested and later charged over allegations of spreading false information claiming the First Lady had died, though he was subsequently released on bail.
Janet Museveni, who also holds the portfolio of Minister of Education and Sports, has remained a key figure in President Museveni’s political life since the bush war era of the 1980s.
She was also visibly active during the 2026 election campaign, making her absence at the swearing-in ceremony particularly conspicuous.
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