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Uganda's President Museveni Nominated for Another Term

Halima Athumani

   KAMPALA - Uganda on Monday began a two-day nomination process for
   candidates who will compete in February's presidential elections.
   President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled the country for 34 years, was
   the first to be nominated and warned that any opponents who destabilize
   the country will be dealt with. Opposition candidates, including
   musician turned politician Bobi Wine, say their homes and offices are
   under surveillance.

   At 10:30 am Monday, flanked by his wife and ten supporters allowed at
   the presidential nomination venue, President Yoweri Museveni arrived
   with his full presidential motorcade and escorts.

   On streets and roads leading to the nomination grounds, songs of praise
   for Museveni blared through speakers and were danced to by his
   supporters, wearing yellow T-shirts.

   After going through his documents for verification and reading him the
   electoral rules, Electoral Commission Chairman Simon Byabakama declared
   Museveni a candidate for the February elections.

   "I Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon being the returning officer for the
   nomination Presidential candidates, hereby declare that Yoweri Museveni
   Tibuhaburwa Kaguta, a duly nominated candidate, in respect of the
   Presidential elections 2021," he said.

   All day, Ugandan social media, radio and television have been awash
   with songs and messages shouting out Museveni's campaign slogan,
   "secure your future."

   In this song, President Yoweri Museveni is praised for his management
   of affairs, including the handling of the opposition, saying he is not
   as bad as late presidents Idi Amin Dada and Milton Obote.

   Bu after his nomination Monday, President Museveni took a tough tone,
   accusing opponents of receiving support from abroad, and suggesting the
   ruling NRM party will use force to keep order if he deems it necessary.

   He said, I hear there are people who want to disorganize and act
   foolishly. He said I want to assure you that no one will bring
   disorganization here, and whoever does so will regret it. Because, we
   don't joke. NRM fought to bring peace in this country.... I am not
   holding a gun now, but no one has stronger military power than us, but
   we don't scare people, said Museveni.

   Museveni is expected to face nine challengers for the presidency. By
   the end of Monday, five candidates will have been nominated.

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