In Uganda, a country where the median age is just 17, the upcoming presidential election stands as a significant event driven by the youth, contrasting sharply with the 81-year-old incumbent, Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power for four decades. As the January election approaches, young supporters adorned in vibrant party colors are energizing the political landscape, expressing their fervent beliefs for both the status quo and change.
At a rally in southwestern Uganda, Steven Bagasha Byaruhanga shared his support for Bobi Wine, the youthful opposition leader with a compelling message of development and potential. Conversely, Ndyasima Patrick maintained his allegiance to Museveni, emphasizing stability and survival over the potential of change.
The election marks a rematch between Museveni and Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, echoing the political tensions that have defined the country’s landscape. Despite decades of governance under Museveni, many young Ugandans seem poised to challenge that legacy.
As Museveni’s National Resistance Movement (NRM) promotes its continuity message, highlighted by the slogan Protecting the Gains, Bobi Wine's National Unity Platform (NUP) calls for a Protest Vote, appealing directly to the frustrations of the youth. The latter insists on liberation and the reassertion of their voices, indicating a generational divide in political ideals.
Despite the vibrancy from youth activists and their campaigns, observers have raised concerns about the nature of this election, suggesting it is less a true democratic process and more a managed operation aimed at suppressing dissent. The international community, including the UN, has pointed out the oppressive environment surrounding this electoral cycle, which features intimidation and repression against opposition members.
As Museveni is expected to secure another term, the overarching question persists: what will happen after his long tenure? Will he pass on the reins of power, potentially to his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, looming large in Uganda’s future political discourse? As the tensions build ahead of the election, it is clear that Uganda's youth are becoming more vocal and assertive in their push for change.
