Shouldn’t Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni Step Aside from Politics?

Uganda’s Future Deserves a Leader with Vision, Not a Lifetime of Rule

News24

At 80 years old, Yoweri Museveni has led Uganda for nearly four decades—longer than any leader aside from a few in Africa’s history. His announcement that he will seek re-election in the 2026 vote raises one glaring question: does the continent deserve more of the same?

When Museveni first took power in 1986, he appeared to offer stability and hope after years of chaos. Since then, he has removed constitutional age and term limits to stay in office. Uganda’s public debt has soared to about $18 billion—well over 50 percent of GDP—thanks to oversized infrastructure loans from China and others that have not delivered broad economic benefits. Meanwhile, two thirds of revenue vanish into corruption, according to official watchdogs  .

The security sector has expanded into politics, with civilians now tried in military courts despite clear constitutional rulings against such practices. Opposition leaders like Bobi Wine and Kizza Besigye face arrests, threats, violence and electoral manipulation. Analysts warn that continued repression could spark further unrest or even atrocities as the election draws near .

Much of the population is under 35. They struggle with rising unemployment, poor public services and fading faith in leadership. Talent and ideas lie untapped. As one opposition voice put it, young Ugandans are not lazy—they are unused.

This world is racing ahead with digital innovation, green energy, and new forms of governance. To stay relevant, Uganda needs a leader who embraces technology, promotes accountability and genuinely values its youth. Museveni should step aside and allow a new generation to rise, before the country is left behind.