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Museveni at 80: A Nation Divided on Four Decades of Leadership

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Museveni at 80: A Nation Divided on Four Decades of Leadership
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As Museveni marks 80 years of life and nearly four decades in power, Uganda stands at a crossroads.

As Uganda celebrates 80 years of Yoweri Museveni, nearly 40 of which have been spent as president, the country finds itself torn between celebration and contention over his enduring rule.

For almost two-thirds of Uganda's population—many of whom were born under his leadership—Museveni is not just a name but a constant.

“Bazukulu,” his term of endearment for the youth, represents both his connection to the new generation and the growing challenge they pose.

Emmanuel Dombo, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Director of Information and Publicity, credits Museveni with transforming a nation once synonymous with economic collapse and insecurity.

"Those who didn’t experience the turmoil before 1986 may not appreciate the transformation he brought. Uganda was a laughing stock, with a collapsed economy," Dombo asserts.

He emphasizes achievements in security and economic reforms, adding, "Under Museveni’s leadership, we’ve seen improvements in life expectancy, education, freedom of worship, and an industrial boom. His recent election as Chair of the G77 speaks volumes about his global recognition."

NRM Caucus spokesperson Kintu Brandon echoes these sentiments, hailing Museveni’s legacy as one defined by “security and economic transformation.”

Yet, for critics, Museveni's extended tenure is less a story of success and more one of missed opportunities.

Political analyst Yusuf Sserunkuma argues, "It’s not the length of his time in power that’s the problem—it’s the emptiness of his long stay."

Opposition figures like Nakaseke South MP Paulson Lutamaguzi go further, painting a bleak picture of Museveni’s legacy.

"He’s had every institution, every resource at his disposal, yet Uganda remains deeply impoverished," Lutamaguzi remarks.

"Look at all the programs—Emyooga, Operation Wealth Creation—yet poverty remains widespread, and wealth is concentrated among a connected few."

While Museveni’s supporters highlight his stabilizing influence and international standing, critics accuse him of entrenching inequality, overseeing a deteriorating education system, and enabling a parliament willing to extend his rule.

"Museveni could have done so much with what he had. Instead, those around him protect their own wealth while ordinary Ugandans are left behind," Lutamaguzi says.

As Museveni marks 80 years of life and nearly four decades in power, Uganda stands at a crossroads.

To his supporters, he is a reformer who brought the country out of chaos and into stability. To his detractors, he is a leader who overstayed, holding Uganda back from its full potential.

What comes next for Museveni—and more importantly, for Uganda—remains a question that looms large.

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