As Uganda approaches its 2026 elections, major political parties exhibit unusual quietness, raising concerns about their preparedness. Opposition groups are strategically silencing their activities due to a tough political landscape influenced by restrictions on public gatherings. While some parties assert they are organizing quietly, the overall state of political engagement remains uncertain, sparking debate on electoral competitiveness.
As Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, the political atmosphere is notably subdued, diverging from the expected surge in campaign activities like rallies and endorsements. Concerns are rising about the preparedness of political parties and the overall health of Uganda’s political context amidst this unusual silence.
For opposition factions, this quietness is primarily a tactical maneuver driven by a tough political climate, rather than idleness. Leaders have pointed to constraints on public gatherings and an unpredictable electoral situation as pivotal factors influencing their strategies.
Alice Alaso, Secretary General of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), remarked on the environment’s dilemmas, stating, “We are in a dilemma. The political landscape is uncertain. Electoral reforms remain unclear, and security forces still wield power over public gatherings. It’s hard to be excited in such an environment” – Nile Post.
The National Unity Platform (NUP), the country’s predominant opposition party, views political silence as essential for survival. Their National Mobilizer, Fred Ssentamu Nyanzi, noted that they are adapting their strategies to avoid disruptions, emphasizing that they are quietly forming structures and identifying candidates while under surveillance.
NUP has encountered significant obstacles in organizing public rallies, often facing disruptions or violent interventions. Consequently, the party is shifting towards underground mobilization with a focus on establishing grassroots community structures to enhance their operational strength.
Amidst this quiet, some political parties assert they are engaged in internal preparations for the elections discreetly. Jimmy Akena, President of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), assured that their efforts align with the Electoral Commission’s roadmap and that their current silence does not indicate inactivity: “We are working within the roadmap. We are registering members and will conduct primaries after May. It may seem quiet, but we are on time” – Nile Post.
Additionally, the Democratic Party (DP) is advancing its grassroots network through a successful membership drive, as stated by Charles Mutenyo, DP’s Electoral Commission Chairman: “We launched a membership drive, and it’s yielding results. We’ve been to Mbarara, Luwero, and many more places. We are following our constitution, step by step” – Nile Post.
Emerging in Uganda’s political realm, the Democratic Alliance is focusing on alliance-building rather than publicized activities. Lubega Mukaku, a prominent figure in this coalition, underscored their deliberate strategy: “We have engaged civil society and key stakeholders. The election roadmap requires careful moves, and we are laying the groundwork for serious action” – Nile Post.
With the upcoming elections imminent, the political landscape remains fraught with uncertainty. Some parties claim they are organizing effectively behind the scenes, but there are concerns that ongoing restrictions on political activities might hinder competitive dynamics. The Electoral Commission asserts that preparations are in motion, yet the readiness of all parties as the election date approaches remains ambiguous.
As Uganda’s 2026 elections draw nearer, political parties are adopting varied strategies amidst restrictions and political uncertainty. While some claim to be actively preparing, others highlight a lack of public engagement as a survival tactic against a challenging backdrop. The preparations, though discreet, raise questions about the upcoming electoral competition and the overall state of democracy in Uganda.
Original Source: allafrica.com
