Political scholar and Anglican cleric Rev Dr Simon Feta has observed a notable shift in Uganda’s political landscape, saying voters are increasingly prioritising individual personalities over traditional party affiliations as the country prepares to go to the polls on Thursday.
Speaking during the Next Big Talk hosted by Canary Mugume on Next Radio on Saturday, Feta said long-standing loyalties to political parties are steadily changing, marking what he described as a new phase in Uganda’s democratic evolution.
“Allegiances to political parties have shifted; people seem to be looking more at personalities than parties,” Feta said.
He explained that voters are now paying closer attention to leadership qualities, credibility and the personal track records of candidates, rather than relying solely on party symbols.
According to Feta, this trend reflects a growing public desire for leaders who can directly respond to citizens’ concerns and aspirations.
Feta further noted that the credibility of the upcoming elections will largely be judged by how well democratic rights and voices are protected throughout the electoral process.
“Credibility in the electoral process will be measured by how well rights and voices are respected, and by the Electoral Commission’s full and impartial execution of its mandate,” he said.
He urged all stakeholders, including candidates, political actors, security agencies, civil society organisations and voters, to uphold peace, fairness and respect for the rule of law before, during and after polling day.
Feta also called on the Electoral Commission to demonstrate transparency and independence in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities.
