Why Ugandans Still Trust Museveni Kasaija Explains, find out

Presidential aspirant Wycliffe Kasaija Kizza has attributed President Yoweri Museveni’s enduring political grip on Uganda to the relative peace and stability he has maintained since taking power nearly four decades ago.

Speaking during a radio interview in Kampala on Monday, Kasaija argued that while many Ugandans are dissatisfied with economic hardships, rising unemployment, and systemic corruption, they still place their trust in Museveni’s leadership because of the security he has guaranteed across the country.

“Ugandans trust President Museveni because of the lasting peace he has maintained. Even when people complain about poor service delivery or corruption, they always say at least there is peace,” Kasaija stated.

He added that Uganda’s violent post-independence history, marked by the regimes of Idi Amin and Milton Obote, left the population yearning for stability above all else.

“For many Ugandans, the trauma of the past makes them hesitant to risk any instability. Museveni understands this psychology and uses it to his political advantage.”

Kasaija, however, noted that this peace dividend should not be used to silence genuine calls for political change and economic reforms.

“The youth today want jobs, they want education, they want health care. Peace alone is not enough. As a country, we need to build on that peace to improve livelihoods and deepen democracy.”

President Museveni, 80, has been in power since 1986 after leading a protracted guerrilla war that ousted Milton Obote’s government.

Over the years, his government has faced accusations of human rights abuses, electoral malpractices, and repression of opposition voices. Despite these criticisms, many rural

continue to view him as a guarantor of peace and national unity.

Political analysts say Museveni’s branding as the father of modern Uganda remains one of his strongest campaign pillars.

Dr. Sarah Mukasa, a political science lecturer at Makerere University, argues that “while opposition figures like Bobi Wine mobilise urban youth with promises of jobs and freedom, Museveni speaks directly to older voters about peace, stability, and continuity.”

Kasaija concluded by urging Ugandans to appreciate the peace they have while demanding accountability from their leaders.

“We should never take peace for granted, but neither should we fear change. We can achieve both if we act wisely.”

He vowed to continue engaging the public on issues of peaceful transition and economic transformation as he prepares his bid to challenge Museveni in the upcoming elections