Uganda braces for tense election as Museveni seeks win

Ugandans head to the polls on January 15 in one of the most closely watched elections in recent years. Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled since 1986, seeks a seventh term, and his biggest challenger is musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, also known as Bobi Wine.

Many observers expect a predetermined outcome, while opposition figures warn that the process will not be free and fair. On the streets Uganda, daily life carries on. For many, the ballot is not about slogans or rallies — it's about survival and hope.

On a bustling street corner in Kampala, Sarah flips chapatis, a local delicacy, on a sizzling pan, her stall framed by the aroma of fried dough and the chatter of customers.

"People talk about big promises," she says, wiping sweat from her brow. "But for me, it's simple: I want a government that makes life affordable. Flour prices keep going up, and every day I wonder if I'll make enough to feed my children."

Nearby, James, a motorcycle taxi rider — known locally as a boda boda — adjusts his helmet and checks his fuel gauge.

"Fuel is killing us," he says with a laugh that hides frustration. "Every time the price goes up, my profit disappears. Politicians say they'll fix roads and reduce costs, but we've heard that before. This election — maybe it's time they listen."

Their stories echo the concerns of millions powering Uganda's informal economy. Rising living costs, poor infrastructure, and limited job opportunities dominate conversations far from campaign podiums. For Sarah and James, the vote isn't about party colors — it's about whether tomorrow will be easier than today.

Uganda's Gen Z — many of them first‑time voters — has emerged as a vocal force demanding transparency, jobs, and an end to entrenched corruption. Their activism has grown steadily over the past two years, inspired in part by youth‑led movements across East Africa.

Some activists have been detained for participating in peaceful demonstrations, with several recounting harsh treatment in custody.

Sharon Atukunda, a student at Victoria University in Kampala, told DW she is alarmed by the increased police and military presence in many parts of the capital.

"First of all, they are holding guns, and a gun is never friendly. So, given that sometimes we have been facing violent times in Uganda, you get scared once you see them."

Maria Byarugaba, a first-time voter and business owner in Kampala, also told DW there is a mix of excitement and fear among first-time voters.

"I'm excited that we're going to vote for our next leader for the next five years, but at the same time, seeing so many police and soldiers on the streets is unsettling. You never know what will happen next."

Byarugaba wants the next government to end corruption.

"Corruption is one thing that is dragging Uganda back. Even infrastructure development is largely affected by corruption," she says.

As election day approaches, the Ugandan government says a sweeping show of force is needed to enforce public order. In his New Year message, Museveni warned security agencies against beating opposition supporters and instead advised them to use teargas and water cannons.

"Using tear gas for rioters is both legal and non-lethal. It doesn't kill. It is much better than using live bullets," Museveni said, adding that the police should be "methodical" before they fire the teargas at rowdy crowds.

Human rights organizations have recorded a pattern of arrests, beatings, and disruptions targeting Bobi Wine's National Unity Party. Videos circulating online show security forces firing tear gas and rubber bullets at crowds, often during routine campaign stops.

Charity Ahimbisibwe Kalebo, an elections specialist and Executive Director of the Electoral Laws Institute (ELI), told DW: "There's not been very good voter education throughout because the donors pulled out, and most civil society organizations did not carry out the voter education that they were required to do."

She says this affects how "the first-time voter will show up and what they will do on the ballot paper."

"During the campaigns, there's been a lot of violence. We've also had people being eliminated from election positions. That is unprecedented — it has never happened before," Kalebo told DW.

As the countdown continues, all eyes are on the January 15 vote. With the outcome likely to shape Uganda's political landscape for years to come, citizens, observers, and the international community hope for a peaceful and credible process that reflects the people's will.

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video