By Our Reporter
President Yoweri Museveni has sparked debate with his latest remarks, in which he appeared to embrace the label of “dictator”—but with a twist.
In a viral video, Museveni said that while critics often call him a dictator, he believes he might be the best one in the world.
“They say I am a dictator, but I don’t know how I dictate,” Museveni remarked. “I must be one of the best dictators in the world. People are going to nightclubs and discos. This is how Uganda is free. Total freedom.”
Museveni, who came to power in 1986 after leading a successful guerrilla war, has now ruled Uganda for nearly four decades—making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
His lengthy tenure has drawn significant criticism from opposition leaders, human rights groups, and international observers, who accuse him of using state power to maintain control. Allegations of electoral malpractice—including vote rigging, intimidation, and media suppression—have repeatedly marred Uganda’s elections.
In past election cycles, the government has been accused of shutting down the internet and targeting independent media outlets. Security forces have also been linked to the arrest and harassment of opposition figures and activists.
Despite these allegations, Museveni insists that Uganda remains a free and peaceful country. He points to nightlife, public gatherings, and open speech as evidence of the country’s freedoms under his leadership.
However, many Ugandans, particularly those aligned with the opposition, argue that the freedoms Museveni references are selective and do not reflect the lived reality for all citizens, but Museveni says even ”this church here in Nakasero don’t allow me to sleep but i have never closed it, total freedom.”
