Frank Gashumba has questioned the preparedness and effectiveness of Uganda’s opposition ahead of the 2026 general elections, describing their current approach as a “business vote” rather than a genuine push for change.
In a pointed social media post, Gashumba challenged opposition leaders to reflect on what they are doing differently this election cycle that would prevent a repeat of previous defeats.
“What is the opposition doing differently from what they did in the last election that will stop them from losing this one?” Gashumba asked. “Protest vote? Let’s call it a business vote.”
Gashumba further argued that President Museveni currently faces no serious competition, suggesting that the political field lacks a formidable challenger following the incarceration of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye.
“There is no one competing against President Museveni,” Gashumba stated. “The only person who was truly competing with him is in Luzira. The rest are just looking for jobs.”
His remarks come amid growing debates on the viability of Uganda’s multiparty democracy and the role of opposition parties in mounting a credible challenge to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), which has maintained political dominance for nearly four decades.
As the country edges closer to the 2026 elections, Gashumba’s critique adds to the calls for introspection within opposition ranks and raises questions about the authenticity and impact of their current political strategies.
