Politics 6 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
UPC 'Rebel' Accuses Obote of Party Grip
A former UPC official, Mr. Sakwa, has publicly criticized Milton Obote's continued hold on the party presidency, drawing parallels between past internal struggles and current leadership dynamics. Sakwa's statements were reportedly triggered by a recent letter from Obote to the UPC. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/people-power/past-present-upc-rebel-accuses-obote-of-clinging-to-party-presidency-5585380
A faction within the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has voiced strong criticism regarding the party’s leadership, with a former official, Mr. Sakwa, accusing Milton Obote of an “unwillingness to relinquish” the party presidency. Sakwa’s public stance emerged following a letter penned by Obote to the UPC, which reportedly outlined directives to party members.
This internal friction is not new, with Sakwa referencing a historical period within the UPC where similar challenges to leadership occurred. He suggests a pattern of Obote maintaining a tight control over the party’s reins, even when faced with internal dissent or calls for change. This, according to Sakwa, has stifled the party’s ability to evolve and adapt to the changing political landscape.
The accusations highlight a recurring theme in Ugandan political parties: the challenge of generational transition and the concentration of power within founding figures. Sakwa’s commentary implies that the UPC, under Obote’s prolonged leadership, may be struggling to foster new leadership and embrace fresh perspectives, potentially hindering its broader political influence.
The specifics of Obote’s letter, which triggered Sakwa’s outburst, are understood to have related to party discipline and direction. However, Sakwa has interpreted it as another instance of Obote asserting his authority, reinforcing his perceived grip on the party’s decision-making processes and its future trajectory.
The ongoing debate within the UPC underscores the complexities of party democracy and succession planning in the Ugandan context. Sakwa’s public dissent serves as a reminder of the internal dynamics that shape political organizations and their ability to remain relevant to the electorate. The situation within the UPC continues to be a subject of discussion among political observers.