Ugandan politician and activist Dr. Miria Matembe has expressed concerns about President Yoweri Museveni’s growing unease as the country approaches elections. According to Dr. Matembe, Museveni is feeling threatened by the increasing popularity of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his new party, the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) ¹.
Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate, has brought new energy to his political efforts, which Dr. Matembe describes as a “new fire.” The formation of the PFF has the potential to mobilize young people who have been unhappy with their situation since the last elections in 2021.
However, Dr. Besigye’s recent arrest and charges in Uganda’s military court have raised concerns. He and his associate, Haji Obeid Rutale, face charges of unlawfully possessing firearms and ammunition. The court has ordered that they remain in custody until December 2nd.
As Dr. Besigye’s legal team prepares his defense, many supporters are rallying around him. The political landscape in Uganda remains tense, with citizens closely watching how these events will affect their rights and freedoms leading up to the elections.
In fact, Uganda’s Electoral Commission has already unveiled the electoral timetable for the 2026 presidential and parliamentary elections, with nominations set to take place from September 17 to October 3, 2025 ². The elections are scheduled for January 12, 2026.