A fresh political storm has erupted after Fred Mukasa Mbidde boldly claimed that Yoweri Museveni is no longer fully in charge of Uganda’s leadership.
Speaking during a live television interview on NBS Television, Mbidde suggested that the President has become more of a symbol than an active decision-maker.
The outspoken lawyer and politician did not hold back his words. He told viewers that powerful individuals operating behind the scenes are now controlling major state decisions. According to him, real authority no longer lies where the public believes it does.
Mbidde’s comments came at a sensitive political moment. The country has recently experienced reports of violence and irregularities during elections, with several candidates raising concerns about fairness and transparency in the process.
During the televised discussion, Mbidde argued that the election-related chaos was evidence of deeper structural problems. He suggested that when confusion and fear dominate political processes, it signals that official leadership may not be fully in control.
He went further to warn that democracy is at risk if leaders begin to rely on what he described as “shadow structures.” In his view, when power shifts away from visible constitutional offices into hidden hands, accountability becomes weak.
The statement quickly sparked heated debate across social media platforms. Many Ugandans expressed mixed reactions, with some praising Mbidde for his courage while others accused him of creating unnecessary panic.
Supporters described him as a fearless voice willing to challenge authority. They argued that open debate is essential in any democracy and that questioning leadership should not be viewed as rebellion.
Critics, however, dismissed his remarks as political theater. Some suggested that such statements could fuel tension at a time when the country needs calm and unity.
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) did not remain silent. Emmanuel Dombo, the party’s Director of Communication, quickly responded in a separate interview defending both the party and the President.
Dombo argued that incidents of election-related violence are not unique to Uganda. He pointed to global examples, saying even established democracies face political turbulence during elections.
According to Dombo, what matters most is how institutions respond to challenges. He insisted that the NRM is addressing complaints raised during the election process and urged party members to remain patient.
This is not the first time Mbidde has raised concerns about what he calls “state capture.” In past interviews, he has claimed that certain individuals within government structures exert undue influence over public institutions.
The idea of hidden power structures is not new in political discussions. Around the world, some analysts often debate whether elected leaders hold full authority or share power with influential advisers and networks.
However, in Uganda’s context, such claims carry heavy political weight. President Museveni has been in power for decades, shaping the country’s political landscape and security structures.
Mbidde’s suggestion that the President is now only symbolic challenges that long-standing perception of centralized authority. It raises questions about succession, influence, and internal party dynamics.
Observers note that political rhetoric often intensifies after contested elections. Statements become sharper, and public figures use strong language to push their narratives.
Meanwhile, ordinary citizens remain focused on daily concerns such as economic stability, service delivery, and security. For many, debates about who truly controls power are less important than practical outcomes.
Political analysts say that transparency and open dialogue are vital in maintaining trust between citizens and leadership. Claims of shadow control, if left unaddressed, can deepen public suspicion.
The coming weeks may reveal whether Mbidde’s remarks lead to broader political conversations or fade into the background of ongoing national debates.
For now, his bold declaration has added a new layer to Uganda’s political discourse. Whether seen as courageous truth-telling or dramatic exaggeration, the statement has undeniably captured the nation’s attention.
About the Author
