14th August, 2025 Author: Freedom Giant Kamara Mohamed Lamin (Mohammed Larry)
No matter how good a dancer is, they should not overstay on the stage. As one of Africa’s leading Pan-Africanists, Professor P.L.O. Lumumba, once wisely said.
This wise saying perfectly reflects the current political situation in some African countries. And, Uganda is a prime example of this, where President Yoweri Museveni, after more than three decades in power, plans to contest again in the 2026 general elections.
President Museveni, who assumed power as President of Uganda in 1986 and some other African Presidents, must come to terms with a reality that history has consistently affirmed; no matter how effective or visionary a leader may have once been, overstaying in power breeds perceptions. Also, no matter how accomplished a leader might be, being in power for too long can damage their legacy, as it would create perceptions of authoritarianism, selfishness, and corruption from the majority of the country’s people or many political and social analysts in the country and across the continent. However, this would suggest an unwillingness to be accountable and a refusal to make way for new leadership, fresh ideas, and generational progress. After ruling for over 30 years, it becomes difficult to justify staying in power without raising serious concerns. And, it also signals a dangerous precedent, one where power becomes personal rather than institutional.
Fellow freedom giants of Africa, it is time for us to rise and stand in solidarity with the people of Uganda and other African countries. Also, let us call upon the Presidents who have been in power for over twenty or thirty years and want to contest for future elections, especially President Museveni, to reconsider his intention to run in 2026. Africa deserves a peaceful and meaningful democratic transition of power, allowing a new generation of leaders to take the reins and move the countries forward.
President Museveni, you have done your part, and your contributions to Uganda are undeniable. CONGRATULATIONS, MR. PRESIDENT!! But now is the time to pass the baton. Let the voice of democracy and the will of the people be heard.
Furthermore, as freedom giants, we must condemn the persistent reports of harassment and torture of opposition party members in African countries, as it is a stain on the principles of democracy and human rights. This is unacceptable in any society that claims to uphold democratic values.
However, we all should be aware that Africa does not need rulers-for-life. We need revolutionary leaders who understand that democracy is built on term limits, accountability, and the peaceful transfer of power. Also, leaders who acknowledged that true power lies not in how long one holds office, but in how one empowers others to lead after them. Africa needs leaders who believe no one person should monopolise power for decades, especially when many other competent and capable individuals within the party or opposition parties are ready to serve.
Let us reject dictatorship and embrace democracy. And let us refuse to be subdued by the decisions of oppressors and, also, we must not allow the decisions of the few to overpower the hopes of the many. Fellow freedom giants, politicians, and all the leaders of Africa, this is our continent, and the future of our people depends on our vigilance, our courage and our unwavering commitment to justice and democratic principles.
AFRICAN VOICES INTERNATIONAL, FREEDOM IN AFRICA
