Gen. Mugisha Muntu, the presidential candidate for the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), has issued a stark warning about Uganda's political future, emphasizing that the country is on the brink of a significant crisis unless voters take proactive steps towards change in the upcoming 2026 general elections. He argues that the current environment—characterized by fear, electoral manipulation, and weakened institutions—poses a serious risk to Uganda’s stability.
During his campaign in Ruhaama and Ruhaama East counties of Ntungamo District, Muntu conveyed a crucial message to the local residents: the responsibility for shaping Uganda's future now lies more with the electorate than with those currently in power. He pointed out that ongoing governance issues and unjust political systems have gradually eroded public confidence, particularly as the 2026 elections approach.
Speaking directly to his supporters, Muntu highlighted the rising frustration among Ugandans who feel increasingly dissatisfied with the lack of transparency, fairness, and accountability from their leaders. "People are tired," he stated. "They desire change but are left feeling hopeless when the regime continues to manipulate the populace through financial means and national security forces."
He elaborated on how Uganda’s pressing challenges stem from weak institutions and a lack of accountability, cautioning that these circumstances create a breeding ground for a political crisis if citizens choose to remain passive. Muntu cited the internal primaries of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) as emblematic of deeper systemic issues, asserting that the disarray within the party reflects a broader failure to uphold democratic principles nationwide.
"Many had hoped for a system characterized by transparency and integrity in our electoral processes. Instead, they have witnessed successive elections marred by manipulation and rigging," he explained. "The fallout from their internal elections has left the NRM in our region plagued by factions."
Muntu emphasized that a political party unable to govern its internal democracy cannot be relied upon to lead the country effectively or justly. He cautioned communities against blind loyalty to political leaders, particularly in regions closely aligned with the current presidency. History illustrates that such areas often support leadership without question, only to suffer adverse consequences when power transitions are mishandled.
"Those communities often bear the brunt when new leaders come into power without balance or discipline," Muntu warned. "We must educate ourselves from past experiences to intervene meaningfully and avert any potential political crisis."
He went on to critique the removal of presidential term limits, which he believes significantly undermined Uganda’s political stability and escalated uncertainties surrounding leadership transitions. "Amending the term limits in 2004 was a grave error. I firmly believe it compromised our political order," Muntu remarked. "Term limits serve as essential safeguards for orderly and peaceful transitions of power. I hope we can avoid a political crisis moving forward."
Muntu firmly believes that predictable leadership transitions are vital for maintaining national unity and long-term stability. He warned that extended periods of rule without defined succession plans increase tensions whenever changes become necessary.
Local ANT representatives accompanying Muntu echoed his sentiments, asserting that Uganda's most significant achievement would lie in a peaceful transfer of power rather than mere physical infrastructure advancements. Gerald Karakure Muchurezi, an ANT parliamentary candidate for Ruhaama County, expressed concern over the growing disillusionment among citizens due to ineffective leadership. "If our nation had the good leadership we advocate for, people would find happiness," Muchurezi stated. "Currently, despair prevails."
He articulated that without accountable and disciplined leadership, development initiatives lose significance while citizens continue to grapple with poor governance.
Muntu's activities in Ntungamo are part of a comprehensive national campaign strategy aimed at motivating voters to confront their fears and actively participate in molding Uganda's political landscape. He encouraged residents to engage in a thoughtful evaluation of the country’s political trajectory and to leverage the 2026 elections as a chance to restore accountability and equity in governance.
Following his engagements in Ntungamo District, Maj Gen Mugisha Muntu plans to extend his 2026 presidential campaign into the Masaka region, where he will conduct rallies and meet with party supporters and local leaders.
