Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has hailed Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni for what he calls his fearless leadership in pushing for the East African political federation and full economic integration.

In a statement on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, the outspoken legislator commended Museveni for his dedication to uniting the region, saying his vision and generosity set a bold example for leaders across the East African Community (EAC).

“Thank you, President Kaguta Museveni, for your fearless leadership in driving the East African political federation and full economic integration agenda. Your dedication and generosity set a bold example,” Olekina took to his official X account.

He urged all East African leaders to seize the moment, rise above divisions, and collectively defend the region from what he termed a “neocolonial agenda” aimed at dividing and exploiting it.

“Now is the moment for ALL East African leaders to rise, unite, and defend our region against the neocolonial agenda seeking to divide and exploit us. Together, we can ignite a transformative debate that will forge a future of strength, prosperity, and unbreakable unity,” he added.

Time for division is over

The senator emphasised that unity is crucial for securing East Africa’s sovereignty and advancing the welfare of its citizens, noting that political disunity and fragmented economic policies have historically undermined regional progress.

“The time for division is over — East Africa must stand as ONE, secure and sovereign,” Olekina declared.

His remarks come as the EAC, currently comprising seven member states, continues discussions on deeper integration, including the eventual establishment of a political federation, the bloc’s ultimate goal outlined in its founding treaty. President Yoweri Museveni has ruled over Uganda for 38 years, making him the longest-serving president in the East African region. Museveni has, however, been firm against the opposition in Uganda.

In a separate incident, Senator Olekina has also hailed President William Ruto’s approach to solving the youth unemployment crisis in the country by equipping young people with trade items such as motorbikes and sewing machines.

”I am proud to see President Ruto’s empowerment programme flourish nationwide—a journey I boldly began in Kajiado when empowerment was just a dream. Today, it’s heartening to see others walk this path I cleared.

“The time is now: let’s decongest Nairobi and end rural-urban migration by equipping our youth to return home and spark real change. Sewing machines, boda bodas, water tanks, and generators aren’t just tools—they are engines of transformation for our rural economies. Let’s build Kenya from the grassroots up!”