By Micah Jonah
January 18, 2026
President Yoweri Museveni securing another landslide victory, extending his rule into a seventh term highlights how deeply entrenched political power has become in Uganda.
After nearly four decades in office, Museveni remains firmly in control of the country’s political machinery, with election results once again delivering a decisive win for the ruling party. While supporters describe the outcome as a sign of stability and continuity, critics see it as further proof that genuine political competition remains extremely limited.
Repeated victories by the same leader may provide short term certainty, but raise long term concerns over leadership renewal, institutional independence, and public confidence in the electoral process. When power changes, democratic systems risk turning into formalities rather than real avenues for choice.
The broader implication is not only about who wins elections, but about if future leaders will have a fair chance to emerge, whether citizens will continue to believe that voting can truly shape national direction.
Museveni latest victory may strengthen his grip on power, however intensifies the debate over how long political dominance can coexist with democratic credibility in modern African politics.
