Politics 7 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Jimmy Akena: Rekindling the UPC's Original Spark

A call for the current UPC leadership to reconnect with the party's foundational ideals and historical significance, urging a return to its roots to regain public trust and relevance. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/comrade-jimmy-akena-let-s-take-the-people-s-party-back-to-the-people-5623534

The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) carries a unique and potent narrative in Uganda’s political landscape – a story of liberation and nation-building. It was the UPC, a party mere months into its existence, that hoisted the Ugandan flag on October 9, 1962, marking the end of colonial rule and the dawn of independence.

However, recent internal struggles and leadership disputes within the party threaten to obscure this rich legacy. The ongoing wrangles, which have seen legal challenges and contested leadership terms, distract from the core mission of serving the Ugandan people.

It is imperative for the current leadership, particularly Comrade Jimmy Akena, to acknowledge the party’s historical significance and its original vision. The UPC needs to move beyond internal squabbles and re-engage with the populace, reminding them of the party’s pioneering role in shaping the nation.

To truly embody the spirit of the UPC, the focus must shift from power contests to policy debates and grassroots mobilization. The party’s strength has always resided in its connection with the people, and it’s time to rekindle that bond. By embracing its history and recommitting to its founding principles, the UPC can reclaim its narrative and its rightful place in Uganda’s political future.

This is a plea to bring the spirit of the UPC back to the people it was always meant to serve. The party’s historical legacy is a powerful asset, but it needs to be actively nurtured and communicated to resonate with contemporary Ugandans. Re-establishing this connection is crucial for the party’s revival and its ability to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.