KAMPALA, Uganda (AP), Yoweri Museveni, Uganda’s 81 year old president who has ruled the country since 1986, was sworn in Tuesday for a seventh consecutive term, extending his tenure to four decades and cementing his place as one of Africa’s longest serving leaders.
Museveni’s rule now spans nearly half of Uganda’s post‑independence history, a longevity that few leaders worldwide can match. His continued grip on power underscores both the stability he has brought, and the democratic deficits critics say have deepened under his watch.
Uganda’s future is tightly bound to Museveni’s leadership. Supporters hail him for transforming the economy, expanding infrastructure, and maintaining relative peace after years of turmoil. But opponents argue his government has stifled dissent, weakened institutions, and entrenched authoritarianism. The question facing Ugandans is whether the nation can imagine a political future beyond Museveni.
“Uganda under Museveni has seen undeniable progress in health and education, but the cost has been political freedoms,” said Sarah Biryomumaisho, a Kampala based analyst. “The institutions remain fragile, and succession is the looming challenge.
Others argue Museveni’s longevity reflects genuine popularity. “He remains the only leader many Ugandans have known, and for them, continuity is preferable to uncertainty,” said political scientist Michael Mutua.
Public reaction is sharply divided. In rural areas, many Ugandans welcome continuity, crediting Museveni with roads, schools, and healthcare. “He has kept us safe and given us development,” said one farmer in Gulu. In Kampala and other urban centers, frustration runs deep. Young voters aligned with opposition leader Bobi Wine say the election was unfair and their voices silenced. “We want change, not another five years of the same,” said a university student in the capital.
Museveni’s extended rule resonates beyond Uganda. Western allies, who rely on Kampala for regional security cooperation, face a dilemma: balancing support for stability with calls for democratic reform. China has deepened economic ties, investing in infrastructure projects, while neighboring countries watch closely as succession debates intensify.
Speculation continues around Museveni’s son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, seen by many as a likely successor. Critics warn of a “Muhoozi Project” that could entrench hereditary leadership, while supporters argue it would ensure continuity.
As Museveni begins his fresh term, Uganda stands at a crossroads. The president’s familiar refrain urging citizens to “get to work” may rally supporters, but the deeper question lingers: after 40 years of one man’s rule, can Uganda’s democracy still find room to breathe?
