The quest for handouts: Uganda's silent veterans

Uganda's political scene has long been known for its vibrant debates and outspoken figures who have helped shape national discourse but this is hardly the case any more.

“The silence of our veteran politicians isn't a change of heart; it's a matter of survival,” Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, the Kira Municipality MP, once said.

In a political environment once dominated by vocal leaders, Uganda is witnessing a curious shift—many veteran politicians who once commanded attention with their fiery speeches and staunch opposition have fallen silent.

As some are absorbed into government roles and others simply fade into the background, questions arise: What is behind this silence? Is it the result of fear, fatigue, or something more nuanced?

Uganda's political scene has long been known for its vibrant debates and outspoken figures who have helped shape national discourse.

However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in the voices of many veteran politicians.

Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, a vocal government critic, attributes this to survival instincts. He points out that financial hardships and the allure of government handouts have driven many to quiet down or align with the ruling party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

"The silence of our veteran politicians isn't a change of heart; it's a matter of survival," Ssemujju notes. He offers examples of once-outspoken figures who have since grown quieter after being co-opted by the NRM.

Ssemujju anticipates that more will follow this trend as the struggle becomes increasingly difficult to sustain.

Miria Matembe, a former minister and renowned advocate for women’s rights, offers a different perspective. She believes that many veteran politicians are simply exhausted after years of fighting for change with little to show for it.

Matembe argues that the lack of significant progress has disheartened these leaders, leading them to retreat from the public eye.

"The prolonged struggle has worn many of us down," Matembe says. "When there is no change in the status quo despite our efforts, it becomes hard to keep going."

Matembe also challenges Ugandans to stop relying solely on politicians to drive change. She insists that for real transformation to occur, citizens must take a more active role in shaping the future.

Despite the growing silence of veteran politicians, new voices like Bobi Wine's are emerging, offering a glimmer of hope for those who fear that the people's will might be waning.

As Ssemujju points out, this new generation of leaders suggests that the desire for change remains strong, even as the old guard falls silent.

Uganda's political future may seem uncertain with the silence of its veteran leaders, but the rise of fresh voices indicates that the struggle for a better tomorrow continues, driven by a new generation unwilling to accept the status quo.