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President Yoweri Museveni has sternly warned political aspirants against the practice of handing out money to voters ahead of the 2026 elections, calling it political corruption and unsustainable.
Museveni Defends His ‘Brown Envelopes’ Tradition
While he himself is known for giving cash handouts to citizens, the President said on Thursday, that political aspirants, especially those running for Parliament should not follow his example, because they are not his equals.
Museveni, whose State House donations budget now stands at Shs 140.8billion, said he, as President of Uganda, has a budget provided to him for donating to Ugandans, which MPs do not have.
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He went on to liken himself to a traditional ruler, who reserves the right to reward his subjects.
Speaking during the presentation of the 2025/26 budget at Kololo Independence Grounds, President Museveni said his practice of handing out cash to the public, is like the Ankole tradition known as "Okurongoora" (rewarding).
Some people say that they give bribes because Museveni is always giving out khaki envelopes to members of the population. Do not mix up issues.
The brown envelopes that I give are part of the ancient tradition here. It is called “Okurongoora” (rewarding). It is the king who does that to the singers or wrestlers.
The president is the modern king. You are not kings. I have a budget for that. I do not sell my cows to get money to reward singers. Stop omwenkanonkano. Stop trying to be like the one who is bigger than you. You tell your voters that Museveni gives envelopes because he is president and he has the budget. You are not president.
Warning to Political Aspirants
Museveni also warned political leaders, especially MPs, against using money to sway voters during elections.
He pointed out that such acts of bribery and fundraising weaken the electorate’s power by electing leaders who may not be able to solve key issues such as infrastructure development or corruption.
"Voters, do not accept petty money from politicians. Do not throw away your power by electing a leader who is only trying to buy your vote," he urged.
The president stressed that once political corruption is tackled, it will be easier to address corruption among public servants, as citizens will be empowered to expose wrongdoing through whistle-blowing mechanisms.