President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised Gen. (Rtd) Caleb Akandwanaho, popularly known as Gen. Salim Saleh, for his early and courageous role in Uganda’s liberation struggle, while issuing a strong warning against corruption among leaders.

Speaking on the seventh day of the ongoing NRM MPs’ retreat at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, Museveni described Saleh as a model of patriotism.

“People like Saleh should act as good examples to you young people to show you what patriotism means,” he said, recalling how Saleh joined the fight against Idi Amin in 1976 at the age of 16, abandoning school at Kako to cross into Tanzania with other fighters.

Museveni highlighted Saleh’s contributions in key battles between 1979 and 1986, including operations in Masindi, Kabamba, Masaka, and Kampala.

He noted that after the war, Saleh shifted focus to economic development and wealth creation, particularly in coffee and northern Uganda.

The President used the occasion to issue a stern warning against corruption, saying offenders will face serious consequences.

“The corrupt are now in danger and will be dealt with. You cannot underestimate us. You will see what will happen,” he said.

He urged the new MPs to lead the fight against graft and avoid taking bribes.

“You in Parliament are now on the frontline. You should not accept bribes. If you have problems, come and tell us, but don’t take bribes,” Museveni emphasised.

“We are going to finish this corruption.”

The President also called for stronger African unity and regional integration to drive economic growth, paying tribute to Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere and Benjamin Mkapa for their role in advancing the East African Community.

The retreat also featured a foundation stone laying ceremony for the Gen. (Rtd) Caleb Akandwanaho School of Research and the Walter Rodney Block.

NALI Director Okei Rukogota said the new facility will promote ideological training, Pan-African studies, and preserve liberation history while advancing “Musevenomics.”

Head of Public Service Lucy Nakyobe warned that corruption is growing and called on MPs to strengthen oversight and ensure value for money in government expenditure.

Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng emphasised prevention as the best approach to healthcare, noting progress in organ transplants at Mulago Hospital.