African leaders with for life titles maintain grip on power across continent

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni Extends His Rule for Seventh Time

In a recent election, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has secured his seventh term in office, solidifying his hold on the country. The results, announced by the electoral commission, show Museveni winning 72% of the vote.

Museveni, who is 81 years old and the third-longest serving president globally, has been in power for over four decades. His control over Uganda is described as absolute, with his son General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s appointment as army chief sparking concerns about a potential dynastic succession plan.

Museveni’s rule has been marked by routine elections that provide a semblance of democratic rule. However, experts say he has perfected unique formulas to consolidate power, including compromised elections and divide-and-rule tactics. Foreign alliances are also seen as an important tool in his strategy.

The use of violence is a notable aspect of Museveni’s approach to maintaining power. According to Kampala-based political analyst Job Kiija, violence is used to suppress dissent and keep allies in check. This approach has been evident in the past, including during the Ugandan Bush War, which began in 1986.

Museveni’s ideas on leadership were likely shaped by his studies of philosopher Frantz Fanon’s theory of violence. In his final year thesis, Museveni focused on this theory and supported Fanon’s position. However, instead of applying it to a colonial force, Museveni has used it to target opposition leaders, journalists, and activists in Uganda.

The 2020 election saw widespread support for opposition candidate Robert “Bobi Wine” Kyagulanyi, but security forces responded with excessive force, killing many supporters. Similar scenarios played out during the lead-up to this month’s election, with security forces targeting opposition rallies and subjecting supporters to arbitrary arrests and torture.

Other African leaders, including Paul Biya of Cameroon and Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo, have also perfected formulas to consolidate power. Experts say that at least three of these leaders have developed unique strategies to maintain their grip on power, using tools such as compromised elections and powerful foreign alliances.

Source: Al Jazeera