KAMPALA — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced the postponement of this year’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations in a decisive move aimed at protecting Ugandans from the growing Ebola threat linked to the outbreak in Eastern Congo.
In a national message addressed to fellow Ugandans, especially the “Bazzukulu,” the President revealed that the decision followed wide consultations with the national epidemic response task force and religious leaders. The annual event, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from across the region, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, was deemed too risky under the current health situation.
Museveni emphasized that safeguarding human life must remain the country’s top priority, warning that the continued influx of pilgrims from Ebola-affected areas could expose Uganda to serious health dangers if immediate preventive measures are not taken.
The President called upon all pilgrims who had already begun their journey to return home and continue observing the Ministry of Health guidelines, including reporting suspected cases and encouraging the sick to seek immediate medical attention.
“We regret any inconvenience caused, but the protection of life must come first,” Museveni stated firmly.
The postponement has been viewed by many health experts and leaders as a bold and responsible act of leadership, placing public safety above tradition at a time when the region remains on high alert over cross-border disease transmission.
Government is expected to communicate a new date for the Martyrs’ Day celebrations once the health situation improves and authorities are assured that public gatherings can safely resume.