** Electoral climate tense in Uganda: between political tensions and civil rights **
One year before the presidential elections planned in 2026, Uganda finds itself plunged into a political atmosphere responsible for tensions. Recent government actions, including blocking the activities of the main opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), led by Bobi Wine, raise crucial questions about freedom of expression and respect for democratic rights.
On April 28, police surrounded the NUP headquarters, preventing the holding of a press conference aimed at launching a “protest voting campaign”. This movement invited young Ugandans to actively get involved in the electoral process and to make their voices heard in the face of the current government. The reaction of the police, which describes these activities “dangerous for public security”, highlights the friction that exists between the security requirements of the state and the civil rights of citizens.
** accusations of repression and disturbing disappearances **
The opposition, for its part, firmly criticizes what it describes as a state of increasing repression. Disappearances of political activists, of which more than 2,000 people have been victims since 2021, have fueled the fear of an intimidation policy orchestrated by the authorities. David Lewis Rubongoya, secretary general of NUP, specifically denounces the case of a bodyguard of Bobi Wine, currently missing, suggesting an escalation of political violence.
In response, members of the ruling party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM), claim that the NUP instrumentalizes these situations to obtain popular support. Enoch Barata, an NRM executive, spoke of “the habit of NUP to cause violence”, raising the question of the border between political demonstration and behaviors deemed criminals by the authorities. This dichotomy deserves to be carefully examined, because each camp seems to have its own interpretation of the legitimacy of the actions undertaken.
** A quest for justice and democracy **
It is essential to contextualize these events in the political history of Uganda. The country has undergone transitions of power marked by periods of violence and disputes. The current political framework, deeply anchored in a dynamic of distrust between the opposition and the government in power, raises concerns on the viability of a transparent and fair electoral process.
The reciprocal accusations between the NUP and the NRM make it difficult to build a constructive dialogue. However, the question that arises is that of the commitment of the two parties to preserve civil rights while guaranteeing security. A delicate balance which, if not reached, could exacerbate the situation and lead to more serious consequences.
** Prospects for the future: búsqueda of solutions **
Faced with this tense context, several avenues for improvement can be considered. First of all, the creation of an inclusive dialogue mechanism, bringing together the different stakeholders, could help soothe tensions and promote a climate of trust. Then, the commitment of civil society organizations and international actors to monitor the human rights situation and denounce any abuse could strengthen democratic processes in a positive way.
It is also crucial to encourage direct communication between young people and political representatives, thus facilitating a space where the concerns of Ugandan youth can be heard and taken into account. In addition, the accountability of the police and the requirement of clear accounts concerning the security actions could promote increased respect for civil rights.
The next year will be decisive for Uganda. Political leaders are responsible for shaping an environment where the constructive debate can prosper, and where the voices of all Ugandans, whether partisans or opponents, can find a legitimate place in the democratic process. Only an approach based on transparency, dialogue and respect for the rights of all will allow Uganda to turn the page on its historical tensions and to move towards a more peaceful future.