The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has formally announced his bid for a seventh term in office, reaffirming his hold on power despite mounting pressure for him to step down.
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Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, made the declaration on Friday after collecting nomination papers from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) headquarters in Kampala.
“I have chosen to come forward again to help guide the Bazukulu (grandchildren) and their parents for another five years,” Museveni stated.
If successful, this would extend his rule closer to the 50-year mark, further cementing his position as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
The 80-year-old leader said his next term will focus on eradicating corruption, which he described as unacceptable, especially under a government in control.
“This time, I want us to deal decisively with corruption. It has no place when you are the one governing,” Museveni emphasised.
He highlighted the country’s progress under his leadership, noting that Uganda has gone through significant development phases since he took power nearly four decades ago.
Museveni also revealed ambitious economic targets, expressing hope that Uganda’s economy would grow to $500 billion within the next five years under his leadership and that of the NRM.
Having first taken power as a rebel leader in 1986, Museveni has since been re-elected six times, though recent elections have been overshadowed by allegations of electoral fraud, violence, and human rights abuses.
His main challenger in the upcoming election, set for January, remains musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who has also confirmed his candidacy.
Museveni has dismissed Wine as a puppet of foreign powers unfit to lead Uganda.
Wine, who has faced multiple arrests over the years, maintains he is running a peaceful, nonviolent campaign for change.
Critics have pointed to Museveni’s past comments, where he condemned African leaders who overstayed in power, contrasting them with his own lengthy rule.
Concerns over dynastic succession have also emerged, with Museveni’s son, army chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba, expressing interest in taking over leadership in the future.
Meanwhile, veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye remains in custody on treason charges widely believed by his legal team to be politically driven.
