By Bwanika Joseph

In Uganda, a fierce battle is raging between the old guard of politicians and the country’s burgeoning young population in the fight against the democratic deficit that has long plagued the nation. The clash between the entrenched political elite and the youthful activists under the most youthful influential new political party the National Unity platform (NUP) seeking change has brought to the forefront the crucial question of how to address the deep-rooted issues that have hindered the development of a truly inclusive and participatory democracy in Uganda.

For decades, Uganda has struggled with a democratic deficit marked by a lack of transparency, widespread corruption, and limited political freedoms due to the killing and abductions of the young blood opposing the old politicians. The old generation of politicians, many of whom have held power for years, have often been accused of perpetuating this status quo through their control of key institutions and resources, as well as their resistance to meaningful reform.

On the other hand, Uganda’s young population, which makes up a significant proportion of the country’s demographic landscape, has increasingly become vocal in demanding change and challenging the entrenched interests that have stifled progress. With their energy, idealism, and commitment to creating a more just and equitable society, young people have been at the forefront of efforts to push back against the democratic deficit and promote greater accountability and transparency in governance.

The battle between old Ugandan politicians and the young population against the democratic deficit can be seen in various arenas, from the streets of Kampala to the halls of parliament. Young people have organized protests asking the brutal regime to free political prisoners, asking government security forces to stop abductions, killing civilians, Young Ugandans living in different countries together with influential figures locally such as Dr. Jimy Spire Ssentongo and others have launched social media campaigns, mobilized support for reform initiatives, all aimed at holding their leaders accountable and demanding a more responsive and inclusive government.

At the same time, the old guard of politicians has sought to maintain their grip on power by employing a range of tactics, from co-optation and repression to discrediting and marginalizing their youthful counterparts. The struggle for political influence and control has intensified as both sides vie for the hearts and minds of the Ugandan populace and seek to shape the country’s future trajectory.

One of the key battlegrounds in this ongoing struggle is the electoral process and at the moment Youths are ethnically considering non violence process in the change of leadership. The upcoming elections in Uganda present a critical opportunity for both the old politicians and the young activists to make their voices heard and advance their respective agendas. The old guard, with their experience and resources, are seeking to consolidate power and maintain the status quo, while the young population is mobilizing to challenge the entrenched interests and push for meaningful change for a better Uganda

The outcome of this battle between the old politicians and the young population will have far-reaching implications for the future of Uganda’s democracy, stability and economic growth. If the old guard succeeds in maintaining its grip on power, the country risks further entrenching the democratic deficit and stifling the aspirations of its youthful population. However, if the young blood are able to mobilize effectively and bring about meaningful reform, Uganda may have a chance to break free from the shackles of the past and build a more inclusive and participatory political system.

The battle between old Ugandan politicians and the young population against the democratic deficit represents a critical juncture in the country’s history. As the struggle plays out in the coming years, the choices made by both sides will determine the trajectory of Uganda’s democracy and the prospects for a more just and equitable society for all its citizens.

The author is a Social Development  specialist and CEO Bridge Your Mind Center

Email; bwani.jose@gmail.com