As Uganda gears up for the 2026 elections, several presidential candidates and their parties have rolled out manifestos outlining their policy priorities.
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has pledged to consolidate peace and security while expanding economic empowerment initiatives, whereas the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) has focused on constitutional reforms and strengthening the rule of law.
However, experts argue that these pledges fail to address the real concerns of the electorate.
“People want manifestos to speak directly to poverty reduction, the improvement of science and technology, and tackling corruption, which continues to derail development,” said political analyst William Kagaba.
Veteran politician Yusuf Lule believes that many parties are out of touch with ordinary Ugandans.
“Manifestos are supposed to reflect the people’s needs, but what we see is a disconnect between politicians and the electorate. They end up recycling promises instead of offering grounded, evidence-based solutions,” he said.
This disconnect, analysts note, helps explain why many citizens view political pledges as seasonal rhetoric rather than practical commitments.
Another recurring critique is the lack of a clear agenda on science and technology. Analysts argue that Uganda cannot achieve meaningful transformation without prioritising innovation, research, and digital infrastructure.
“Investing in science and technology would create jobs and drive sustainable development,” said independent analyst Elias Tumwebaze.
“Unfortunately, none of the manifestos we have seen place it at the top of the agenda.”
Smaller parties are attempting to fill some gaps. The Conservative Party (CP), led by Ken Lukyamuzi, has proposed federalism as a way to decentralise power and improve service delivery.
Presidential aspirant Elton Mabirizi has also criticised mainstream manifestos, insisting that new approaches must move beyond conventional pledges on security and economic growth.
Analysts further highlight that the welfare of public servants, particularly teachers and healthcare workers, is largely overlooked.
While economic empowerment features prominently in manifestos, concerns remain about accountability and effective implementation.
Critics cite programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), which, despite its potential to channel resources to grassroots communities, has suffered from delays and poor appropriation.
“Economic empowerment is positive,” Kagaba noted. “But unless issues of accountability and resource allocation are addressed, these initiatives will continue to disappoint the people they are meant to uplift.”
Observers emphasise that citizens want leaders who provide practical solutions to daily struggles.
Poverty reduction, technological advancement, anti-corruption measures, and fair wages consistently top public priorities.
Yet as campaigns intensify, dominant party manifestos appear more geared toward political strategy than substantive public needs.
“The reality is that manifestos remain diluted documents,” Lule concluded. “Until they are shaped by genuine consultation and evidence, they will continue to be seen as empty promises rather than roadmaps for national progress.”
