Uganda’s Museveni Confirms Bid to Extend Rule into Fifth Decade

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has formally announced his intention to run in the upcoming presidential election, aiming to extend his rule into a fifth decade—solidifying his grip on power since taking office in 1986.

Museveni, aged 79, made the announcement during a national address, stating that his extensive experience positions him as the “best candidate” to address Uganda’s critical challenges, including economic reforms, infrastructure development, and regional security concerns. He dubbed his next term “the era of implementation,” promising to deliver the fruits of his long-held policies.

Critics and opposition figures have denounced the bid as a further erosion of Uganda’s democratic norms. They’ve highlighted the country’s history of constitutional amendments in 2005 and 2017 that removed presidential term limits and age caps—changes widely seen as facilitating Museveni’s continuing stay in power.

International human rights groups have raised alarms over increased political repression, including restrictions on opposition campaigns and persistent detention of critics. Civil society activists warn that Museveni’s candidacy could deepen societal polarisation and undercut prospects for fair, competitive elections.

Despite discontent at home, Museveni maintains strong support within the ruling National Resistance Movement and among voters in rural areas, where he has historically garnered considerable backing. However, growing urban youth disillusionment and growing economic pressures could shape the election’s outcome.

With input from Al Jazeera