President Museveni Rejects Arsenal EPL Celebration Invite, Urges Focus on Poverty and Jobs

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has stated that celebrating Arsenal's English Premier League title is not a national priority, after revealing he was invited to join supporters' victory parties.

The London-based club, managed by Mikel Arteta, secured their first league championship in 22 years, ending a long wait since their renowned "Invincibles" season of 2003/04.

The triumph, sealed with a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on the final day of the 2025/26 season, sparked widespread celebrations among their passionate fanbase in Uganda.

However, speaking at the first session of the 12th Parliament at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Monday, May 25, 2026, President Museveni said he politely declined an invitation to the festivities, emphasising that his focus remains on national development.

"Somebody was writing to me that I should attend a celebration for Arsenal Football Club for winning a trophy. No, I do not see the need," Museveni told Parliament.

The President, a former footballer himself, stressed that while he understands the sport, his attention is dedicated to more pressing issues such as economic transformation, job creation, and poverty eradication.

"I was a footballer myself. Nobody can tell me about football, but I gave up football in 1966," he explained. "I am now concentrating on liberation, poverty and jobs."

Museveni urged citizens and leaders not to let sports celebrations overshadow the critical work of improving livelihoods. His remarks drew laughter from some Members of Parliament.

"You can have your Arsenal and all those things, but start with the people, please," the President said. "Start with your own people, start with helping and teaching your own people."

The President's stance was similar to that of Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze, who had earlier expressed his bemusement at receiving requests for financial contributions for Arsenal victory parties.

In a social media post, Tumwebaze noted his frustration, writing, "Stress in the morning! Imagine getting an early morning call and one asking to ‘kindly help’. What help? Not buying coffee seedlings, not poultry feeds, nothing. But asking a contribution towards their mbaga (celebration) for Arsenal. Very annoying. We need a serious mindset change."

The English Premier League has a massive and dedicated following in Uganda, with supporters of clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool often organising large public gatherings to watch matches and celebrate victories.