FACT-CHECK: NO, PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAS NOT APPOINTED HIS DAUGHTER AS CENTRAL BANK GOVERNOR

By Ihaze Damian

Recent claims circulating on social media and some online platforms allege that Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has appointed his daughter, Natasha Museveni, as the Governor of the Central Bank of Uganda. These assertions have sparked discussions about nepotism and the concentration of power within the Museveni family. However, thorough investigations reveal that these claims are unfounded.

 The Facts

As of April 2025, the position of Governor of the Central Bank of Uganda remains vacant following the death of Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile in January 2022. Since then, Deputy Governor Michael Atingi-Ego has been overseeing the bank’s operations in an acting capacity.

Both Africa Check and AFP Fact Check have scrutinized these claims and found no official announcements or credible reports confirming Natasha Museveni’s appointment to the role. The Bank of Uganda’s official channels and the State House of Uganda have not released any statements supporting this claim. Moreover, a spokesperson for the Bank of Uganda has categorically stated that the news of Natasha’s appointment is “not true”

 The Origin of the Misinformation

The false narrative appears to have originated from an April Fool’s Day article published by Kampala Eye, which explicitly stated that the story was a prank citeturn0search4. Despite this disclaimer, the story was picked up by various online platforms and social media users, who either overlooked or ignored the satirical nature of the original post.

 The Dangers of Misinformation

Spreading unverified or satirical information as fact can have serious implications:

– Erosion of Public Trust: Repeated exposure to false information can diminish public confidence in media outlets and governmental institutions.

– Undermining Democratic Processes: Misinformation can skew public perception, leading to misguided opinions and decisions that affect democratic governance.

– Potential for Social Unrest: False narratives, especially those touching on sensitive issues like nepotism and governance, can incite unnecessary tension and unrest.

 The Importance of Verification

In an era where information spreads rapidly, it’s crucial for both media outlets and consumers to prioritize verification. Before sharing or acting upon news, especially those that seem sensational or controversial, it’s advisable to consult official sources or reputable fact-checking organizations.

While concerns about nepotism and the concentration of power are valid topics for discussion, it’s essential that such conversations are grounded in verified facts. The claim that President Museveni appointed his daughter as the Governor of the Central Bank of Uganda is false. Responsible journalism and informed public discourse are vital for the health of any democracy.