Evelyn Anite Apologizes for Past Remarks, Sparks Speculation Over Political Future
Hon. Evelyn Anite, Uganda’s Minister of State for Privatization and Investment, has issued a public apology for some of her past statements, marking a significant shift in her political stance. Known for her bold and often controversial remarks, Anite admitted that some of her words were spoken without fully considering their impact.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Anite reflected on her past conduct, acknowledging that in her younger years, she was reckless with her words. She particularly referenced her infamous 2017 statement, “we have the magye”—a remark used to justify the removal of the presidential age limit—saying she did not fully understand its meaning or implications at the time.
“When I was below 40 years, I didn’t care whose feelings I was hurting with my words & actions. All that mattered to me was the protection of myself,” Anite wrote. “That’s why I could say words like ‘we have the magye’ even when I didn’t know the meaning of the word, let alone understand its impact.”
Now at 40, she says she has matured and gained a better understanding of leadership. She credited Rt. Hon. Gen. Moses Ali for advising her that youthful exuberance often leads to impulsive decisions—a realization she says has now dawned on her.
A Political Downturn?
Anite first gained national attention in 2015 when she famously knelt before President Yoweri Museveni, pleading with him to seek re-election in 2016. Her unwavering loyalty earned her a ministerial position, first as Minister of State for Youth and later as Minister of Investment and Privatization. However, her political fortunes suffered a blow in 2021 when she lost her parliamentary seat in Koboko to Charles Ayume, the son of former Speaker of Parliament Francis Ayume.
Recent reports suggest that Anite abruptly cut short her stay at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi and instead traveled to Canada under unclear circumstances. Sources indicate that her latest statements may not have sat well with Uganda’s political establishment, leading to speculation about her future. Adding fuel to the rumors, she removed her ministerial title and profile picture with President Museveni from her X profile.
What Next for Anite?
Anite’s public apology and subsequent actions have raised questions about her political trajectory. Is she seeking redemption, preparing for a transition away from politics, or simply rebranding herself? As Uganda’s political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on whether Anite’s latest move signals the end of her once-prominent career or the beginning of a new chapter.
Only time will tell.
