The Effect of Prolonged Presidency on Electoral Democracy In Uganda, 2012-2023

Abstract

The prolonged presidency in Uganda, characterized by the prolonged leadership of President Yoweri Museveni since 1986, has significant implications for the country's democracy, particularly concerning electoral integrity and political participation. Democracy, founded on principles of free and fair elections, the rule of law, and active citizen participation, faces challenges in Uganda due to entrenched political leadership. This study addressed how a prolonged presidency impacts democratic processes, focusing on electoral integrity and political participation in the post-2012 political landscape. Three objectives guided this research: first, to assess the impact of prolonged presidency on the integrity of electoral processes in Uganda; second, to analyze the relationship between prolonged presidency and political participation; and third, to explore potential avenues for fostering political rights and democratic participation. The study was underpinned by the theory of democratic backsliding, which examined how a prolonged presidency can erode democratic norms and institutions over time. A mixed methods approach was employed in this research, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data to provide a comprehensive analysis. The research design included case studies, descriptive analysis, and correlational studies. A diverse target population, including government officials, civil society members, and ordinary citizens, was selected to ensure a broad perspective. To address this gap of low responses in quantitative surveys, Afrobarometer data was used to complement limited responses, aiming to increase the reliability and validity of data from the field study. The chapter included data presentation, analysis, and discussion of the findings by the research objectives. Relevant themes were highlighted using respondents' pseudonyms, and findings were tied back to the literature and the theoretical framework discussed in Chapter Two. The study's initial objective was 300 respondents. However, only 130 completed the surveys, representing a 43 percent response rate. To solve this issue, Afrobarometer data was used to complement the restricted survey responses, increasing the study's reliability and validity. The quantitative data from both sources (field study and Afrobarometer) were examined using descriptive statistics, and the findings were grouped according to research objectives. The conclusions drawn from the study's findings regarding Yoweri Museveni's prolonged presidency in Uganda and its implications for democratic governance and political participation. Additionally, this chapter offered recommendations based on the findings and suggested areas for further research. The insights garnered through the research process are essential for understanding the broader context of Uganda's political landscape and informing future efforts to enhance political rights and foster democratic engagement.