Why Ugandans should trust the future beyond Museveni’s leadership

By Denis Muteguya

As Uganda inches closer to the future, questions surrounding political transition often dominate the national discourse. Understandably, transitions from long-serving leadership can evoke uncertainty, but Ugandans need not fear when the nation is guided by the steady hand of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, a revolutionary leader whose commitment to Pan-Africanism and stability has redefined Uganda’s place in history and on the global stage. The key lies not only in Museveni’s leadership but in the robust systems and principles he has cultivated over decades to sustain stability and development even beyond his tenure.

Revolutionary leaders are often architects of enduring legacies. Figures like Nelson Mandela of South Africa and Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana shaped their nations’ political and cultural identities. While Mandela transitioned from power after one term, his legacy of reconciliation and democracy has remained an unshakable foundation for South Africa. Similarly, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame has established systems that focus on nation-building, economic growth, and regional influence—ensuring the country remains on an upward trajectory.

In Uganda, Museveni’s leadership reflects similar hallmarks of legacy-building. Since taking power in 1986, he has prioritized peace, security, and economic stability, propelling Uganda from a turbulent past into an era of relative calm and growth. The peacekeeping efforts in Somalia and South Sudan exemplify Uganda’s influence as a regional stabilizer, positioning the country as a leader in African diplomacy.

While transitions can be turbulent in some nations, Uganda has avoided the coups and instability that have plagued several West African countries, such as Niger and Mali. This resilience stems from Museveni’s deliberate institution-building, including the professionalization of the armed forces and the establishment of electoral frameworks. Uganda’s military, unlike in many other nations, is rooted in loyalty to constitutional order rather than partisan interests.

For instance, during the Arab Spring a wave of uprisings that shook North Africa and parts of the Middle East many believed that the ripple effects would sweep across sub-Saharan Africa. However, Uganda remained unshaken due to the systems established by Museveni. From security forces to economic stabilization mechanisms, these structures have safeguarded Uganda against external and internal shocks.

Moreover, the fear of a power vacuum upon Museveni’s eventual retirement is mitigated by the existing electoral process. Any leader who aspires to take the helm must go through democratic channels to gain legitimacy. This guarantees a level of continuity and order that reassures Ugandans of their country’s stability.

Despite the solid foundation Museveni has laid, Uganda’s future will ultimately hinge on the emergence of a new generation of leaders capable of sustaining and building on his legacy. The challenge is not merely to find someone who can lead but to find a leader with a vision as comprehensive and transformative as Museveni’s.

Leadership transitions in many countries demonstrate that the choice of a successor can determine whether a nation progresses or regresses. For example, in Tanzania, the seamless transition from the late John Magufuli to President Samia Suluhu Hassan ensured continuity in governance and economic policies. Uganda must look for leaders who exhibit similar qualities of vision, competence, and commitment to national unity.

Under Museveni’s leadership, Uganda has extended its influence beyond its borders. The country has become a key player in peacekeeping missions, exporting stability to conflict-prone regions like Somalia. Uganda’s contributions to regional bodies such as the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU) demonstrate its growing diplomatic clout.

This global and regional significance underscores the need for Ugandans to elect leaders who understand the complexities of international diplomacy and regional integration. Leaders with narrow or parochial visions will struggle to maintain Uganda’s position as a force for peace and progress on the continent.

Ugandans must focus on cultivating a new generation of visionary leaders who can take the country to greater heights. Rather than fearing change, citizens should engage in shaping it by advocating for leaders who prioritize national interests, economic development, and social cohesion.

As the nation prepares for eventual political transition, it is crucial to recognize the systems and structures that have been established under President Museveni’s leadership. These foundations ensure that Uganda is not only stable today but is also well-prepared for the future. The challenge lies in choosing successors who can honor the past while steering the nation toward a brighter tomorrow.

Uganda’s story is one of resilience, progress, and opportunity. With its strong institutions, strategic leadership, and informed citizenry, there is no reason why Uganda cannot continue to thrive long after Museveni’s era. Ugandans should remain optimistic, knowing that the nation’s destiny is in capable hands and that their collective voice will shape the Uganda they want to see.

The writer is a political commentator and ONC coordinator