UPC President questions PLU endorsements, raises malnutrition concerns

4 November 2026, 5:41 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) President, Hon. Jimmy Akena, has raised concern over the high rate of malnutrition among children in Uganda, urging government to prioritise issues affecting ordinary citizens.

Akena also advised the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to follow the established constitutional procedures if he intends to become President, instead of relying on endorsements by members of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU).

He was responding to the ongoing countrywide endorsement campaigns by PLU members in support of General Kainerugaba’s possible presidential ambitions.

Akena, who also revealed that his life is under threat, said the challenges he faces have only strengthened his determination to continue advocating for Ugandans.

“Is my life under threat? Yes, like that of any other leader. But, as I said, this journey has strengthened me. The children of Uganda should have what they deserve. If the General wants to be President, there are proper ways to follow, not endorsement,” Akena said.

According to estimates, about 465,900 children under the age of five in Uganda require treatment for acute malnutrition, with climate shocks, prolonged dry spells and high food prices among the contributing factors.

Akena also raised concerns about the country’s economic challenges, including the depreciation of the Uganda shilling, although his remarks on the matter were not fully clear.

Meanwhile, the party also held the climax of a historic political pilgrimage led by Akena, alongside members of the Association of Bikers and Dr. Kisembo Ronex Tendo of Afrika Mashariki Fest.

The journey, which began in Uganda on October 7 and ended in Zambia on October 26, 2026, was organised in honour of the founding fathers of the East African Community and the Mulungushi Club.