President Museveni has pushed back against allegations from National Unity Platform (NUP) MP Muhammad Kivumbi, who accused him of fostering a culture of bribery through the public distribution of money, often referred to as “brown envelopes.”
In a statement released on Saturday, Museveni dismissed the claims as a misunderstanding of a long-standing Ugandan tradition, clarifying that the funds he hands out are not political handouts but part of a state-recognized cultural reward system known as Kurongoora.
“That brown envelope is a glorious one. It is the official envelope of the Republic of Uganda, given by the President to deserving people,” Museveni stated, highlighting a recent example where he gifted UGX 5 million to Bwola dancers in Patongo as recognition for their cultural contribution.
He emphasized that Kurongoora is reserved for traditional performers, senior citizens, and individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their communities—not voters or political allies.
Taking a swipe at Kivumbi’s remarks, Museveni added.
“Hon. Kivumbi is not the President of Uganda and has no budget for Kurongoora. He can offer a modest figure to Kivuuwa dancers, like offertory in church.”
The President also used the opportunity to reiterate the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) firm stance against vote-buying and political corruption, calling it a “mistake” that must be confronted collectively.
“The use of money for politics, beyond the legitimate needs of logistics, is in spite of my vision and that of the NRM—and not because of us,” he said.
