Uganda’s Electoral Commission on Tuesday cleared President Yoweri Museveni to run for reelection in polls set for early next year, a move that could extend his grip on power to nearly half a century.
The 81-year-old former rebel, who seized power in 1986, has been lauded for stabilising Uganda, fostering economic growth, and leading efforts against HIV/AIDS. However, his government has faced criticism for suppressing dissent, human rights violations, and repeated corruption scandals.
Museveni’s candidacy was the first to be approved by the elections body, which is tasked with vetting aspirants for legal eligibility. The commission is expected to review the bid of his main challenger, opposition leader Bobi Wine, on Wednesday.
Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, is a 43-year-old pop star-turned-politician who commands significant youth support. He rejected the results of the 2021 election, alleging ballot stuffing, voter intimidation, and security force crackdowns, claims that were dismissed by Museveni’s government.
At a press conference following his clearance, Museveni vowed to focus on restoring public safety, upgrading transport infrastructure, and expanding access to health care and free education if reelected. “There’s a bit of crime and impunity,” he said, promising his ruling National Resistance Movement would also target corruption.
The government is banking on an economic surge next year as Uganda begins crude oil exports, with officials projecting double-digit growth in the next financial year.
Museveni, Africa’s fourth longest-serving leader, has previously overseen constitutional changes to remove term and age limits, allowing him to remain in office.
Critics accuse him of using military influence, state patronage, and security crackdowns, including kidnappings and alleged torture of opposition activists, to secure his rule. He denies the allegations.
The upcoming vote is widely seen as another major test of Uganda’s democracy and its youthful electorate, with Wine expected to mount a strong challenge despite concerns about political freedoms.
Source: Reuters
Written By Rodney Mbua
