Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni, now 80, emerges as the governing party's candidate for the upcoming presidential election, aiming to expand his nearly 40-year reign amidst controversies and opposition assertions.
Museveni Aims for Continued Rule as Uganda's Presidential Election Approaches
Museveni Aims for Continued Rule as Uganda's Presidential Election Approaches
Uganda's long-time leader seeks to extend his presidency amid criticism and opposition challenges.
Yoweri Museveni, Africa's one of the most enduring leaders, has officially been declared the candidate for Uganda's ruling party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM), in next year's presidential election. As he prepares to seek another term, Museveni's acceptance speech emphasized his commitment to transforming Uganda into a "high middle income country."
Critics contend that Museveni has maintained his grip on power since his ascension in 1986 through authoritarian means. Over the decades, he has consistently won electoral contests, with amendments made to the constitution facilitating his prolonged presidency by removing age and term limits.
Among his primary challengers is the musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, also known as Robert Kyagulanyi, who plans to contest against Museveni. Wine has expressed frustrations regarding the growing oppressive atmosphere for opposition parties, stating that being in the opposition equates to being labeled a terrorist.
In the last election in 2021, Museveni claimed victory with 59% of votes against Wine's 35%, yet the election was overshadowed by reports of electoral fraud and suppression of dissent. Prominent opposition figure Kizza Besigye has faced political arrest since November, accused of treason, which he claims is a politically motivated charge.
During his recent address, Museveni touted Uganda's stability and growth during his tenure and urged for strategic advancements, stressing the need for Uganda to seize historical opportunities for development, akin to successful transformations seen in other nations with fewer resources. He believes that Uganda can achieve similar outcomes with the right governance.
The road ahead is fraught with tension as Uganda approaches the January election, presenting a critical moment for the nation’s future trajectory.
