Top Story: Frustration Boils Over as 2026 Elections Approach — Opposition Supporters Demand Action, Not Sympathy
August 1, 2025 — Kampala
As Uganda inches closer to the 2026 general elections, frustration and disillusionment among opposition supporters have reached an all-time high. After two decades of yearning for political change, many are deeply disappointed that yet another five-year cycle appears to be passing without the long-hoped-for regime shift.
For many, the ruling NRM government’s grip on power — characterized by widespread corruption, human rights violations, and impunity — has long passed the point of tolerability. But the growing presence and controversial behavior of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, President Museveni’s son and apparent successor-in-waiting, has added fresh insult to injury. His frequent outbursts and inflammatory commentary on social media have only fueled public outrage and despair.
The numbers speak volumes. In the 2021 presidential elections, 76% of Kampala voters rejected President Museveni, underscoring the capital’s status as the heart of opposition sentiment. Yet, despite clear discontent, opposition supporters say they feel abandoned and ignored — not just by the regime, but increasingly by their own leaders.
Disillusionment with parliamentary politics is deep and widespread. While MPs are expected to represent citizens’ voices, many Ugandans, particularly in Kampala and Wakiso, believe the opposition’s minority status renders them ineffective in the face of a dominant pro-regime majority. Controversial bills — including the much-criticized Coffee Bill and the UPDF (Amendment) Bill — are pushed through without regard for public outcry.
“Ugandans gave up on Parliament years ago,” says one long-time opposition supporter from Kawempe. “We don’t want to hear about speeches anymore. We want action. Clear strategies. A roadmap to change.”
Indeed, community efforts by opposition politicians — from donating ambulances to organizing youth tournaments — are increasingly seen as distractions. While appreciated, they fall short of addressing the core demand: regime change. The population is grappling with crushing poverty, debt, unemployment, and the emotional toll of decades of political stagnation.
In opposition strongholds, expectations are clear. Constituents no longer want promises of being “heard in Parliament.” They want leaders prepared to spearhead real strategies for ending NRM rule through peaceful and decisive action. Many argue that those who cannot rise to this challenge should consider stepping aside ahead of the 2026 race.
Even though past elections have been marred by irregularities and alleged vote rigging, opposition supporters say they expected alternative tactics and strategic innovations during the five years since 2021. That hasn’t happened — or at least, not visibly.
As election season heats up, voters are urging opposition leaders to shift focus from chronicling injustice to delivering hope. They want fewer heartbreaks from parliamentary proceedings and more actionable plans for political transition. The message is loud and clear: opposition voters are no longer satisfied with bearing witness to the status quo — they want to change it.
Whether the opposition will rise to meet that call in time for 2026 remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: for millions of Ugandans, this is no longer just an election — it’s a desperate plea for national salvation.
