How Ugandans can break free from Museveni’s authoritarian rule.
Many years ago, when I was a child, news spread on the radio that Laurent Kabila, the father of Joseph Kabila, had been assassinated. I remember listening to my elders discuss it, all agreeing that anyone who comes to power by bullets can only be removed by bullets.
Yoweri Museveni and his National Resistance Army (NRA) seized power from General Tito Okello’s military government on January 26, 1986, and he has remained in power ever since.
Initially, Museveni seemed promising, and the Ugandan people were hopeful. However, over the years, he has increasingly come to be viewed as a dictator and an authoritarian leader. Despite his authoritarian rule, the economy has shown significant stability and growth throughout his nearly 40 years in office.
Even with a democratic constitution in place, President Museveni has employed intimidation and exerted control over state institutions, undermining genuine democratic processes such as free expression and fair elections. The recent elections were marred by irregularities, as highlighted by international media and his key opponents like Bobi Wine. Meanwhile, Kiiza Besigye, who has endured repeated arrests and torture, remains detained, despite his deteriorating health.
So, what can Ugandans do to escape this situation? First, they must unite in their desire for freedom. Perhaps an uprising could be the answer, but can it really succeed in Uganda? I doubt it, given the tribal dynamics at play. Successful uprisings in parts of North Africa were largely due to their Arabic ethnic solidarity.
What about a coup? While we don’t advocate for such drastic measures, there’s that saying: those who gain power through violence can only be removed by violence. That, perhaps, should be the last resort for Ugandans. But is there anyone with the necessary resources to make that happen? I’m not sure.
However, I have a better suggestion. If the economy is thriving, healthcare is accessible, and the youth have job opportunities under his leadership, then there may be no real reason to act.
My thoughts Ngesa Philip
