African Leaders Maintain Power Across Nations from Uganda to Cameroon

In the heart of Kampala, Uganda, lies State House, a symbol of enduring political power, home to President Yoweri Museveni for over 40 years. His recent electoral victory marks a continuation of a leadership era defined by resilience amidst challenges, raising critical discussions about the nature of democracy and governance in Uganda and across Africa. As Museveni navigates the complexities of leadership, he embodies a broader narrative of long-serving leaders who have maintained their rule through a combination of established political networks and calculated governance strategies.

In the hilly uptown Nasakero area of Kampala, State House stands as a testament to the enduring rule of President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power for over four decades. Following Thursday’s election, Museveni has once again extended his presidency for a record seventh term, securing 72 percent of the votes against a popular opposition challenger, musician Robert “Bobi Wine” Kyagulanyi. At 81 years old, Museveni is now the third-longest serving president globally, having played a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s political landscape since he first took office in 1986.

Political analysts highlight Museveni’s absolute control over the nation, compounded by his son’s appointment as army chief back in 2024, fueling concerns regarding a potential dynastic succession. In a youthful nation where approximately 70 percent of the 46 million population is under 35, Museveni’s lengthy tenure represents a significant portion of the life experience for many Ugandans. By the time he concludes his current term in 2031, he will have held office for an impressive 45 years.

Yet, Museveni’s rule is not an isolated phenomenon. Across Africa, several leaders, including Cameroon’s Paul Biya and Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo, have similarly entrenched themselves in power while presenting a façade of democracy through periodic elections. Political experts argue that these leaders have mastered the art of consolidating power through manipulated electoral processes, strategic alliances, and tactics that divide opposition forces.

In Uganda, Museveni’s often violent tactics are employed to quell dissent, as noted by Job Kiija, a political analyst in Kampala. Initially emerging from the National Resistance Army, which ousted an unpopular government in a six-year civil war, Museveni’s grip on power has been bolstered by his foundational experiences studying political philosophy—particularly Frantz Fanon’s theories on violence and political struggle. Instead of harnessing these ideas against colonial forces, Museveni has directed them at opposition figures, journalists, and activists, effectively stifling dissent.

The political landscape surrounding Museveni has become increasingly fraught, especially with the rise of Bobi Wine in 2020. His grassroots appeal among Uganda’s youth was met with overwhelming state violence, leading to numerous deaths and arrests among his supporters during election rallies. High-profile opposition figures, such as Kizza Besigye, remain imprisoned under severe accusations, further illustrating the crackdown on alternative voices within Uganda.

Museveni’s use of corruption as a means to control his allies—from allowing misappropriation of state resources to leveraging their vulnerabilities—has been highlighted by analysts. Corruption, intertwined with Uganda’s political instability since gaining independence from Britain in 1962, has roots in its colonial history, with minority groups historically favored for ruling positions. Despite the wealth of resources like gold and oil, Uganda’s dependency on foreign aid continues, while the country’s role as a stabilizing military force in the region—contributing to conflicts in Somalia—has allowed Museveni to cultivate favorable relations with Western powers.

The electoral outcome, while a reflection of support for Museveni, has been contested by opposition leaders, including Bobi Wine, who labeled the results “fake.” As Museveni’s eldest son appears to be positioned for future leadership, many observers remain attentive to how Uganda’s political narrative will evolve, particularly in light of regional dynamics and the pressing need for democratic reforms.

In a global context, Museveni’s and other African leaders’ enduring reign raises critical questions about the future of electoral integrity on the continent. Despite the prevalence of malpractices that threaten genuine democratic participation, experts urge citizens to remain engaged in the electoral process, emphasizing that resistance—both legal and grassroots—is vital in shaping a future where public voices can resonate powerfully through the ballot.

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