Museveni Seeks “Last Chance” as Uganda President, Citing Unfinished Projects

President Kaguta Museveni asks for another chance as president. (Facts East Africa)

by Mathipa Phishego

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has once again asked Ugandans to grant him a last chance as head of state, insisting he still has critical projects to complete before retiring from office.

Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, told supporters that his government is on the brink of major milestones that require his leadership. Among the projects he highlighted are the long-delayed start of oil production, expansion of the country’s infrastructure network, and the completion of agricultural modernization programs under his flagship Operation Wealth Creation.

“I cannot leave before these projects are complete. We are almost there, and I ask you to give me this last chance,” Museveni said, emphasizing Uganda’s anticipated oil revenue and ongoing industrialization drive.

This is not the first time the 81-year-old leader has suggested he is preparing to step aside. Over the decades, Museveni has repeatedly hinted at retirement only to extend his stay through constitutional changes that scrapped presidential term and age limits. By the next election in 2026, he will have been in power for four decades.

Ugandian citizens have dismissed Museveni’s remarks as a political tactic rather than a genuine exit plan. They argue that the President is more focused on consolidating power than completing development goals.

Network Citizens stressed that this is one of Museveni stunts to lead again and again. “Last chance from Museveni is like one more drink from that uncle who’s been at the bar since 4pm. The man has been in office since cassette tapes and shoulder pads were fashionable, yet he still talks as if he’s a fresh candidate with unfinished business. If after nearly 40 years you’re still dangling a few projects, then either you’re the slowest project manager on earth or you’ve been lying to the shareholders the whole time,” stated one X user.

Museveni’s prolonged rule has been characterized by heavy reliance on patronage networks, suppression of dissent, and the entrenchment of his family within the state’s security apparatus. Many believe his last chance rhetoric is aimed at buying time to prepare a controlled succession, possibly involving his son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

While Museveni touts stability, regional influence, and economic progress as his legacy, critics warn that Uganda risks slipping further into authoritarianism if democratic transitions remain elusive. The President’s call for one more term underscores a familiar reality in Ugandan politics. Despite four decades in power, Museveni is not ready to let go just yet.