"If You Don't Want Competition, Then Remove Elections Instead of Torturing People" Museveni Told

Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere has strongly condemned the Ugandan government’s handling of opposition politicians and their supporters, questioning the integrity of the country’s electoral process.

In a bold statement, the religious leader challenged President Yoweri Museveni’s administration to either allow fair competition or do away with elections altogether.

“If you don’t want competition, then remove elections instead of torturing people,” Archbishop Ssemogerere declared.

Archbishop Ssemogerere's remarks happened amid rising concerns over political persecution, arrests, and alleged human rights abuses against opposition figures, particularly members of the National Unity Platform (NUP).

Over the years, Uganda’s elections have been marred by allegations of voter suppression, intimidation, and excessive use of force by security agencies.

Opposition leaders, including NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), have repeatedly accused the government of using violence to silence dissenting voices.

Archbishop Ssemogerere’s statement has added weight to the growing calls for electoral reforms in Uganda.

Many Ugandans believe that democracy in the country has been reduced to a mere formality, with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) accused of manipulating the system to retain power.

The government, however, maintains that Uganda is a democratic state where elections are conducted freely and fairly. Authorities argue that opposition leaders often incite violence, prompting security forces to take action.

LINK: https://x.com/Pliam_/status/1896445135904555368

Archbishop Ssemogerere’s remarks are likely to fuel further debate on the state of democracy in Uganda.

Even as the 2026 general elections approach, the pressure on Museveni’s government to allow a fair political playing field continues to mount.