Opinion: Museveni and the NRM Govern Like a Cult, Silencing Dissent with Force

It is evident that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government operates like a cult of leaders who often resort to force to silence dissent. Tyrannical regimes typically consist of individuals unable to engage in logical deliberations, resorting instead to violence to maintain power.

Historically, tyrants have been societal deviants who, rather than resolving disputes amicably, have used force to topple opposition. These individuals often have low self-esteem and perceive peaceful resolutions as intimidation, thus avoiding accountability.

Over time, such regimes establish empires built on fragile foundations, primarily serving the egos of their leaders. They betray the very principles they once fought for, resorting to subjugation and prioritizing power above all else.

In Uganda, a wave of awakening is sweeping across the community, challenging a political system that has been in place for nearly forty years. Ugandans are increasingly vocal in their condemnation of corruption, a cornerstone of President Museveni’s administration.

For months, citizens have demanded accountability and the resignation of corrupt officials, such as the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among. These demands have been met with threats, kidnappings, and detentions without trial by the government.

Corruption is rampant in Uganda, with scandals affecting various government entities. Despite his public stance against corruption, President Museveni continues to protect those involved, promoting them to higher positions while only targeting minor offenders. Significant corruption is prevalent in sectors such as coffee, education, judiciary, military, parliament, Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), and wealth creation programs.

Ugandans have long expressed their frustrations with unlawful detentions, deteriorating infrastructure, poor healthcare, and failing education systems. However, their pleas have fallen on deaf ears, as the leaders are insulated from these issues.

President Museveni and his allies continue to enrich themselves at the expense of ordinary Ugandans. The billions of shillings stolen could address numerous national problems, such as improving healthcare and education.

Now, a new generation of taxpayers, particularly Gen-Zs, is standing up to defend their country. These citizens, disillusioned by decades of corruption and mismanagement, are uniting against the system. Yet, the government responds by condemning peaceful demonstrators who seek change.

The NRM government, still clinging to outdated guerilla ideologies from 1986, fails to address the needs of the current population. President Museveni, a former rebel leader, continues to undermine democracy and protect corruption. His administration’s response to peaceful protests demonstrates a commitment to maintaining power through intimidation and violence.

Uganda stands at a crossroads, with its citizens demanding a return to justice and integrity. The government’s efforts to silence these voices only underscore the need for systemic change. As Ugandans march against corruption, they reveal the true authors of the nation’s tragedy: those in power who prioritize personal gain over the country’s well-being.