As Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections, debate continues to intensify over the readiness of young people to shape the nation’s political direction and the credibility of the electoral process.
Appearing on national television on Monday, November 24th, 2025, Butambala County MP Hon Muwanga Kivumbi during a discussion on the performance of the Electoral Commission (EC) ahead of the polls said Uganda’s youth are increasingly asserting themselves and positioning to influence the country’s future.
“There is a determination by the young people to take charge of their destiny,” Kivumbi stated
However, his remarks divided public opinion among social media users especially on X challenging Kivumbi’s view on the primary drivers of national transition.
“Hon Muwanga Kivumbi, that is what you think. Uganda is not for the youth only. Talk about Uganda as it is, not as it was because it wasn’t,” user @PaulNsubuga wrote on X.
The debate comes amid growing scrutiny of the EC’s handling of the election process, including candidate nominations. Rising complaints and petitions have led to questions about whether the Commission is ensuring fair competition.
EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi defended the Commission’s work, saying its decisions are based strictly on the law and evidence presented.
“EC, as provided for in the law, is listening to complaints and petitions arising from the nomination process,” he said.
Despite the Commission’s assurances, some experts argue that deeper structural issues persist.
Professor Rogers Barigayomwe claimed the nomination process has been compromised, alleging that certain unopposed candidates benefited from insider influence.
“Many of these unopposed candidates have insiders who have manipulated the RC system,” he said.
The ongoing exchanges highlight the tension between growing political engagement among Uganda’s youth and persistent concerns over electoral transparency, shaping what is expected to be a closely watched election season.
