The Myth of Power: Understanding Ownership in Uganda's Politics

The phrase "power belongs to the people" has become a popular slogan among Uganda's political elite, wielded by opposition leaders to rally the masses and used by incumbents to defend their governance.

However, this begs the question: What does it truly mean for power to belong to the people, and do the people genuinely possess this power?

Since Uganda attained self-rule from colonial powers in 1962, the country has seen a succession of leadership changes, with over nine presidents taking the helm.

Yet, the catchphrase "power belongs to the people" has gained traction, particularly within opposition politics.

This raises concerns about the authenticity of this claim and what power truly signifies in the hands of citizens.

Prominent opposition figure Robert Kyagulanyi, the leader of the National Unity Platform, has championed this phrase, advocating for the people's empowerment.

However, political analyst Tanga Odoi argues that the opposition has misused the term to suggest that the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) is obstructing citizens' rights.

To delve deeper into the concept, we took to the streets to gauge public understanding of this powerful notion. Opinions varied, revealing a complex relationship between the populace and their perceived political power.

Political analyst James Nkuubi emphasized the need to deconstruct the myth of transferring power, suggesting instead a debate on transforming power to serve the common good.

"The discourse often implies a transfer of power from one individual to another without addressing how to transform that power to benefit the people," Nkuubi explained.

He further warned that transferring power without establishing robust systems to hold leaders accountable is a losing proposition.

"We need to dismantle the state we inherited in 1962—a state that extracts from the system with minimal returns for the people," Nkuubi added.

He noted that the perception that only a select few are benefiting from governance is a misguided view that undermines broader accountability.

Odoi countered that Africa must develop its own political narrative rather than clinging to the colonial divide-and-rule tactics that have long misled its citizens.

"Africa needs its own political system; we have borrowed too much. The Movement System was a step in the right direction, uniting us all, regardless of our backgrounds, for the common good," he argued.

As Uganda navigates its political landscape, the discourse around power and its ownership remains pivotal.

It challenges leaders and citizens alike to re-evaluate what true power entails and how it can be wielded effectively for the benefit of all.