How Museveni Outplayed Everyone: The Masterstroke That Won Rev. Gaetano and Shook Kigezi And Opposition

In an event many are already describing as “the political miracle of the decade,” NRM presidential candidate Yoweri Kaguta Museveni arrived in Rukiga on Tuesday expecting a typical campaign visit but instead received one of the most surprising endorsements of his career — a public blessing from Rev. Fr. Gaetano Batanyenda, the outspoken priest who had long been seen as Kigezi’s fiercest critic of Museveni’s leadership.

Everything changed the moment Father Gaetano stepped forward. The crowd in Rukiga first fell silent, then murmured in disbelief before bursting into cheers as the priest, often referred to as the “conscience of Kigezi,” placed his hands on Museveni and prayed for his success in the 2026 election. To those watching, it felt as though a major shift had taken place in Kigezi’s political landscape, upending beliefs that had held steady for nearly thirty years.

Amid the excitement and confusion, one question rose above all others. Why did Gaetano cross over? This mystery has spread from Kabale’s busy streets to political offices in Kampala, leaving many trying to make sense of what happened.

For years, Father Gaetano was known for his unwavering criticism. He spoke against corruption with rare intensity, challenged Museveni’s long rule with boldness, and consistently aligned himself with opposition groups during every election season. He was seen as both a moral guide and a source of inspiration for anti-Museveni sentiment in Kigezi, especially during difficult political periods.

So what caused such a dramatic change after decades of resistance? What disappointment was powerful enough to sway a priest who had stood firm for so long? And, as some quietly wonder, did Museveni offer something in Rukiga that finally convinced him?

Sources in Kabale insist that internal issues within the opposition may have contributed. Several well-placed political operatives say Father Gaetano has grown “deeply angered by the selfishness, opportunism, and internal fights” in the political groups he supported for years. According to these insiders, he expected unity and integrity, but instead experienced the opposite.

They claim some opposition figures only reached out to him during election periods. They say various promises to support his community initiatives were left unfulfilled. Perhaps most damaging, they report that Gaetano was pushed aside in recent planning despite being one of their most influential mobilisers in Kigezi. A senior political insider summarized it bluntly: “They used him, dumped him, then returned when it suited them.”

In contrast, those involved in the recent discussions describe Museveni’s interaction with Gaetano as calm, respectful, and measured. Unlike the internal conflicts the priest allegedly observed in the opposition, Museveni is said to have approached him with “respect and statesmanship.” Reports indicate that the President pledged direct support for community projects Gaetano has advocated for and proposed concrete improvements to roads, schools, and health services in Kigezi. He also listened carefully to concerns regarding youth unemployment and the decline in tea prices, issues that have long troubled the region.

One source highlighted the difference sharply: “Museveni offered him solutions. The opposition offered him slogans.”

People close to the priest say his decision was not only political but also spiritual. Church insiders describe it as a matter of “conviction, not conversion,” a conclusion shaped by months of thought. They say Gaetano began to feel that constant confrontation was not producing meaningful results for his community. As one insider from Kitanga parish shared, “He told colleagues that he wants results for Kigezi, not endless political dramatics,” indicating that his choice was driven more by practical concerns than ideology.

Within NRM, the reaction has been overwhelmingly celebratory. Party members see Gaetano’s blessing not just as support, but as a major psychological breakthrough in a region traditionally associated with opposition strength. Some within the party believe this marks a strategic turning point. One senior NRM member confidently stated, “With Gaetano on Museveni’s side, Kigezi is sealed,” suggesting that the priest’s switch could influence broader political loyalty in the region.

The effects of this unexpected development are still unfolding. His dramatic shift has confused many opposition supporters, boosted NRM mobilisers, and sparked discussions about whether the political landscape of Kigezi is quietly being reshaped.

The biggest question now is whether Gaetano’s move is simply his own decision or the beginning of a wider shift away from the opposition in a region long known for its resistance.

What is clear is that Museveni entered Rukiga seeking votes, but he left with what many have already begun to call a miracle.