Abstract: The Government of Uganda (GOU) has invested in Wealth Creation Projects (WCPs) since 1986, aiming to reduce poverty and enhance economic empowerment. Previous research has assessed these projects largely in terms of implementation, progress, challenges, citizen participation, and socioeconomic impact. However, limited scholarly attention has been given to the political motives behind their initiation, particularly from a citizen perspective. This article addresses this gap by analysing whether citizens perceive WCPs as instruments of economic empowerment or political expediency. Guided by empowerment theory and political clientelism, the study draws on a cross-sectional comparative survey of household heads in three rural districts—Kaliro (N = 350), Kibaale (N = 300), and Luweero (N = 325)—representing eastern, western, and central Uganda. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed through one-way ANOVA. Findings indicate that while citizens recognize elements of economic empowerment, they strongly perceive political expediency as the dominant driver of WCPs. The study concludes that the credibility and effectiveness of such projects will remain limited unless government reduces political manipulation and prioritises genuine empowerment outcomes.