PM Nabbanja takes on Presidential duties President Museveni tests positive for COVID-19

President Yoweri Museveni has tested positive for COVID-19 and has delegated Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to fulfil his presidential duties during the Heroes’ Day celebrations in Luwero today and tomorrow.

In an official statement this afternoon, the president revealed that he is self-isolating at Nakasero after experiencing mild flu-like symptoms. The symptoms started on Tuesday, following his engagement in activities in Kampala after the retreat in Kyankwanzi.

President Museveni initially ignored the symptoms and continued with his meetings in Entebbe while working on his extensive State of the Nation Address. However, yesterday morning, he noticed mild flu-like symptoms in one of his nostrils, specifically the right one. Concerned, he promptly contacted his doctors to take samples and rule out COVID-19.

“I ignored the feeling and had my meetings in Entebbe as well as working on my voluminous State of the Nation Address. Yesterday morning, however, I noticed some mild flu-like symptoms in one of the nostrils (the right one). That is when I called my doctors to take samples and rule out Corona. They took three samples- one rapid and two PCRs. The rapid one was negative and so was one of the PCRs,” Museveni narrates.

As a precautionary measure, the president traveled to Kololo separately from the First Lady, as the samples were sent for reconfirmation. When he returned from Kololo, it was confirmed that he had contracted the virus.

President Museveni emphasized that he has been extremely cautious in dealing with COVID-19. However, he recently had to forgo wearing masks due to experiencing allergic reactions in his eyes and throat, which caused him to lose his voice on two occasions during the elections.

“This allergy has forced me to take a second leave in the last 53 years since 1971 when we started fighting Idi Amin. The first time was when I had sinus problems and had to lie low for a few days at Mweya,” the president explained.

Despite the positive diagnosis, President Museveni assured the public that he is only experiencing mild symptoms and is in good health by God’s grace. Nevertheless, he believes it is essential to err on the side of caution and continue self-isolating for the time being.