President Yoweri Museveni has ruled Uganda since 1986. He has since been officially named the victor of that linked presidential contest, winning an astounding 71.65 percent of the overall vote. This win, declared by the country’s electoral commission, secured his seventh term in office. Museveni’s longstanding grip on power raises questions about the democratic process in Uganda, especially considering his government’s history of repression against political opponents and civil society.
At 81 years old, Museveni has changed the constitution twice to eliminate age and term limits, allowing him to extend his presidency despite widespread criticism. His most prominent challenger, Bobi Wine, got 24.72 percent of the vote. Museveni originally expected to win that election with at least 80 percent of the vote. Yet his campaign was met with crippling allegations of a massive campaign of repression and intimidation.
Allegations of Repression
An election victory marred by reports of violence and intimidation against opposition members. Museveni’s government faced significant backlash for its handling of dissent, with at least ten people reportedly killed by police during an attack on a local opposition lawmaker’s home. Such repression of political opponents has been widely condemned by human rights and civil society organizations.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan commented on the atmosphere in Uganda, stating that it “instilled fear and eroded public trust in the electoral process.” Naturally, there are grave concerns about the credibility of Museveni’s win. Their complaints come from allegations of a hostile, campaign crushing environment.
“Currently, I am not at home, although my wife and other family members remain under house arrest. I know that these criminals are looking for me everywhere, and I am trying my best to keep safe,” – Bobi Wine
Control Over Media and Communication
To maintain tight control during the election period, Museveni’s government instituted a nationwide internet blackout. Critics claimed that the initiative was specifically designed to suppress communication between supporters of the opposition and stop the dissemination of information regarding electoral wrongdoing. This decision has heightened fears such transparency and fairness could never exist in Uganda’s strict and punitive electoral climate.
Even with these issues at hand though, Museveni’s fans claim his success in bringing stability to Uganda after the civil war and creating an economic boom. His critics assert that these accomplishments do not excuse the oppressive tactics employed during his long tenure.
A Legacy in Question
As a former rebel fighter himself, Museveni had initial popular support for what he had accomplished—ending decades of civil strife in Uganda. His two-decade rule has more recently been associated with a style of autocratic governance. The recent elections have reignited deep debates over Uganda’s democratic future. Many hope that a new generation of leaders will emerge to challenge the status quo.
