Politics 6 April 2026
Ugandans demonstrated readiness for political shift through strong support in recent elections, but the Opposition's fragmented response post-vote has left supporters disillusioned. The piece urges strategic unity, grassroots focus, and sustained engagement to build real momentum ahead of 2026. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/from-protest-vote-to-real-change-a-wake-up-call-for-the-opposition-5414464
culture 6 April 2026
As Easter concludes, a commentary questions why Ugandans favor scarce palm branches for Palm Sunday over abundant local banana plants, which symbolize life's transitions much like the biblical palms did in their Jewish context. This highlights a broader civilizational tension between adopted foreign symbols and indigenous ones deeply embedded in daily life. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/why-do-we-raise-palms-lay-banana-stems-for-the-dead--5414458
Politics 5 April 2026
A commentary questions whether perfectly free and fair 2026 elections would have improved Uganda's governance or development, given the country's persistent reliance on foreign aid and structural weaknesses since independence. It highlights ongoing dependency on Japan and China, media struggles, and the booming sports betting sector amid youth unemployment. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/people-power/had-2026-polls-been-free-fair-would-it-have-made-a-difference--5412918
Politics 4 April 2026
Allan Tacca critiques Uganda's elite for receiving lavish public funds for farming ventures while ordinary citizens struggle, questioning if taxpayers will fund these through lotteries. He highlights a pattern of patronage turning the state into a 'vampire' that drains resources from the masses. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/allan-tacca/vip-s-for-whom-taxpayers-toil-5412948
religion 4 April 2026
Pastor Rwomushana stands out among his peers by displaying genuine interest and sincerity, likened to a woman eagerly engaged on a promising date. This authentic approach may position him closer to spiritual fulfillment than others. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/why-pastor-rwomushana-may-be-closer-to-heaven-than-his-peers-5412952
opinion 4 April 2026
Uganda is sinking gradually like a majestic ship taking on water, pole pole – mpola mpola, as highlighted in a commentary linking cases from Mabel to Eddie Mutwe with the nation's broader woes. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/from-mabel-to-eddie-mutwe-rising-waters-a-sinking-nation-5412946
opinion 4 April 2026
A commentary highlights growing frustration among Ugandans with the state of the country, arguing that government services fail to deliver meaningful benefits despite provisions of goods. This disconnect leaves citizens disillusioned with Uganda. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/ugandans-are-tired-of-uganda-5412950
Politics 3 April 2026
The commentary predicts that Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine will bask in media attention briefly before returning to the typical patterns of exile. It highlights the common struggles of exiles, including feelings of powerlessness and loss of control in unfamiliar environments. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/bobi-wine-will-enjoy-camera-for-a-few-then-it-will-be-business-as-usual-5412508
Politics 3 April 2026
A Daily Monitor columnist warns that Uganda is sliding into a dark period marked by growing state repression against free speech, media, and civic spaces. Recent crackdowns on digital activism and even rumors signal a hostile shift toward independent thought. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/growing-repression-signals-dark-era-in-uganda-5412554
Politics 3 April 2026
Donald Trump's war against Iran has escalated into a regional crisis, closing the Strait of Hormuz and triggering a global economic downturn, much like the Iraq War he once criticized. Europe faces the heaviest consequences outside the Middle East despite distancing itself from the conflict. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/trump-s-iran-war-and-the-return-of-a-familiar-quagmire-5412594
crime 3 April 2026
Uganda Police's 2025 crime report boasts fewer reported cases, but this likely reflects citizens' growing distrust in the system rather than actual safety gains. People have stopped reporting incidents due to endless delays and fruitless pursuits, allowing criminals to thrive unchecked. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/here-s-why-reduced-crime-figures-should-worry-us-all-5412208
opinion 2 April 2026
A columnist challenges the Archbishop's call for church transport amid tax exemptions, arguing that bars serve as vital community hubs fostering social bonds and economic activity, yet face crippling taxes and rising costs that demand government relief. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/bars-need-tax-breaks-too-5410708
Politics 2 April 2026
Uganda's governance has shifted from public institutions to informal private power centers, subverting the judiciary, military, and parliament into tools of personal rule. The article demands reclaiming the republic through judicial independence, civilian oversight, and automatic accountability mechanisms. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/the-republic-in-chains-and-how-to-reclaim-it-5411364
media 1 April 2026
Former Daily Monitor editor Daniel Kalinaki reflects on the newspaper's turbulent history and calls for it to move beyond mere survival amid political repression, instead fostering debates on future possibilities and a new social contract for Uganda. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/daniel-kalinaki/from-moshi-to-namuwongo-and-back-what-should-the-monitor-do--5410744
education 1 April 2026
A ban on outside food during school visitation days in Uganda aims to reduce inequality, enhance health safety, and hold schools accountable for student meals, despite emotional attachments parents have to home-cooked treats. While some view it as harsh, supporters argue it fosters unity and dignity among learners. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/how-valid-is-the-ban-on-food-on-school-visitation-days--5410638
finance 1 April 2026
Borrowers in Uganda face unfair double payments for credit insurance when transferring loans to new banks with better rates, as the new lender demands fresh coverage despite existing upfront insurance. Experts call for reforms to link insurance to the loan risk itself, not the bank, to promote competition and protect consumers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/loan-buyoffs-should-borrowers-pay-twice-for-switching-lenders--5410632
Business 1 April 2026
Ugandan executives risk irrelevance by avoiding social media, as active online presence shapes perceptions and opens doors to opportunities like panels, interviews, and partnerships. Sharing genuine insights on platforms like LinkedIn boosts credibility and influence among decision-makers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/personal-branding-perception-is-currency-5410534
opinion 31 March 2026
As wars rage worldwide from Israel-Iran tensions to Sudan, Africa must prioritize wisdom over chaos, resolve internal conflicts, and lead by example in promoting diplomacy and stability. The continent's experiences position it uniquely to model peaceful coexistence and economic progress. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/at-a-time-the-world-chooses-war-africa-must-choose-wisdom-5408762
tourism 31 March 2026
While Uganda boasts stunning wildlife and landscapes, poor infrastructure, negative social media narratives, and governance issues hinder tourism growth essential to the nation's tenfold economy plan. Experts urge diversification into cultural, sports, and man-made attractions to rival global leaders like France. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/nicholas-sengooba/tourism-uganda-s-challenges-beyond-the-gift-of-nature-5408700
opinion 31 March 2026
The passing of philosopher Jürgen Habermas prompts reflection on his vision of a rational public sphere, introduced to the author by late Makerere lecturer Dr. Brian Semujju. Uganda urgently requires open, reasoned discourse to sustain true democracy beyond mere elections. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/a-tribute-to-two-teachers-why-uganda-needs-habermas-now-5408654
transport 30 March 2026
Kampala's drivers treat traffic rules as optional, turning roads into chaotic playgrounds with lane-dribbling 'footballers,' fake VIPs ignoring one-ways, and opportunists tailing ambulances. The author urges personal discipline and stricter enforcement to ease congestion that wastes 52 working days yearly per driver. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/kampala-roads-where-everyone-is-a-vip-5407556
education 30 March 2026
School visitation days bring joy to Ugandan students as parents visit to check progress and build connections, but clashing schedules across schools create logistical headaches for families with children in multiple institutions. Better planning, such as regional coordination and spreading activities, could enhance these vital events. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/school-visitation-days-when-good-intentions-need-better-planning-5407538
education 30 March 2026
Uganda's leadership stresses the need for more engineers, scientists, and technicians to drive industrialization, yet many secondary schools lack proper laboratory facilities and equipment. This gap hinders hands-on learning, turning science into rote memorization rather than practical skill-building. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/uganda-wants-scientists-but-are-our-schools-ready--5407494
Politics 28 March 2026
The ongoing search for Uganda's Deputy Chief Justice is a critical test of commitment to merit, transparency, and rule of law amid concerns over recent judicial appointments. Neglecting these principles could hollow out institutions like those in failed African states, turning the judiciary—the state's spinal cord—into a source of paralysis. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/search-for-deputy-cj-damage-the-spinal-cord-cripple-the-republic-5406162
Politics 28 March 2026
A commentary claims Uganda's security forces' heavy-handed response to Bobi Wine after the elections backfired spectacularly, allowing his undetected escape and damaging the nation's image. Leaving him alone would have kept the country running normally without exile or international backlash. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/uganda-would-still-be-the-same-if-bobi-were-left-alone-5406172
religion 28 March 2026
A commentary challenges the self-righteousness of Pentecostal leaders who denounce traditional spirit worship while offering similar services in their churches. It questions their claims of miracles and enlightenment amid a lack of verifiable evidence. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/who-is-holy-or-satanic--5406204
Politics 28 March 2026
Justice Minister Norbert Mao's political ambitions may be a mere pawn in a larger scheme leading to a second NRM revolution, potentially elevating the Chief of Defence Forces to the nation's top position. The commentary draws parallels to Marxist tactics and the Greek myth of Icarus to caution against hubris in Uganda's elite-driven power transitions. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/beware-a-second-nrm-revolution-is-loading--5406192
Politics 27 March 2026
Critics argue that the National Resistance Army's 1986 takeover was more a selfish power grab than a true revolution, with Uganda's political and social spheres showing profound decay despite modest economic gains. Longevity in power has fueled corruption and dysfunction, derailing any initial ideals of transformation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/corrosion-of-nrm-revolution--5405862
infrastructure 27 March 2026
A commentary argues that developing an international airport in Kasese would better serve Uganda's economic ties with eastern DRC compared to the proposed Mbarara airport, which risks attracting illicit traffic without clear regional benefits. Enhanced infrastructure like roads to DRC already positions Kasese for substantial trade gains. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/kasese-airport-is-better-than-mbarara-airport--5405852
lifestyle 26 March 2026
A humorous take on the harsh realities of adult life in Uganda captures the daily grind of work pressures, financial woes, relationship mishaps, and bureaucratic hassles that make growing up feel like a relentless chokehold. From failed investments to rising fuel costs and workplace politics, the piece reflects on how 'shida za dunia' hit hard once the youthful optimism fades. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/education-is-the-key-hardwork-pays-nio-nio-nio-adulting-is-hard--5403260
world 25 March 2026
While wars shift across regions like sub-Saharan Africa and beyond, with innovations like drones altering battlefields, core principles persist: no plan survives contact, wars are hard to end, and the best victory avoids fighting altogether. Over 240,000 deaths in the past year underscore a world far from peaceful despite fewer major global wars. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/daniel-kalinaki/war-war-everywhere-but-it-s-the-same-old-blood-letting-5403454
education 25 March 2026
A Ugandan educator criticizes columnist Gawaya Tegulle for questioning the recent flood of top grades in national exams, arguing that such skepticism ignores the rigorous new curriculum and undermines excellence. Celebrating more A's reflects genuine improvement, not lowered standards. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/lack-of-faith-in-recent-exam-results-is-intellectual-dishonesty-5403500
Politics 24 March 2026
Ugandan governance mirrors scripted TV series like House of Cards and Game of Thrones, with family members dominating key positions and bribery turning parliament into a rubber stamp. Faulty infrastructure projects and rigged elections further evoke dramatic political thrillers across Africa. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/charles-onyango-obbo/ugandan-politics-now-resembles-a-netflix-series-5402076
lifestyle 22 March 2026
A reflective piece contrasts the carefree, risk-taking days of youth in Uganda—daily boda boda commutes through floods and potholes, all-nighters at work, junk food binges—with the calculated, health-focused choices of middle age, where comfort, safety, and selective socializing take priority. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/life/the-age-of-self-preservation-5398072
opinion 21 March 2026
In a personal anecdote from 1990s Uganda, writer Philip Matogo cleverly declared himself 'an American' to evade soldiers in a barracks, illustrating how perceptions dictate treatment. He links this to Bill Clinton's view of politics as a 'head game' and the Vietnam War's lesson in psychological strategy over battlefield wins. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/the-mind-is-a-terrible-thing-to-waste-5398518
opinion 21 March 2026
A passionate op-ed warns against government plans to abolish or dilute the Law Development Centre (LDC), arguing it serves as a vital crucible for forging competent advocates with uniform standards. The author shares personal anecdotes to highlight LDC's rigorous value, cautioning that handing training to universities risks undermining the legal profession's integrity. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/want-to-abolish-ldc-o-foolish-ugandans-who-hath-bewitched-you--5397218
religion 21 March 2026
Ugandan columnist Allan Tacca argues that Pentecostals should be called Bapentekoote rather than Balokole, a term implying moral reform that doesn't apply to all amid rising scandals in their churches. He highlights cases of alleged rape, fraud, and exploitation while noting that rogues persist across all faiths. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/allan-tacca/it-is-bapentekoote-not-balokole--5398488
Politics 19 March 2026
With the world distracted by its own crises, Uganda's opposition needs to shift from begging Western powers for sanctions to forging strong institutions, broad coalitions, and enduring political strategies that survive beyond elections. External pressure has lost its bite amid global turmoil. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/the-world-seems-too-busy-for-a-priceless-democracy-5397160
climate 19 March 2026
African leaders are urged to reject the portrayal of the continent as a global climate solution, viewing it as a tactic by historical polluters to evade responsibility. Instead, they should demand justice, reparations, and differentiated treatment ahead of COP32 in Addis Ababa. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/why-africa-is-not-the-world-s-climate-solution--5397174
Health 19 March 2026
Ugandan nurses endure daily emotional strain, blame for systemic failures, and burnout from overwork, yet receive little recognition or support. Caring for these carers is essential to fortify the healthcare system. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/nurse-tales-who-cares-for-the-carers--5397156
Politics 19 March 2026
A community advocate from Rubanda District calls on Ugandans to prioritize leaders' competence and accountability instead of religious affiliation during elections. He shares personal stories highlighting how religion fails to address everyday challenges like healthcare and jobs. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/competence-not-religion-should-determine-our-vote-5397172
environment 19 March 2026
Women environmental defenders lead the fight against climate threats but face severe violence, gender-based harassment, and emotional strain that often goes unrecognized. Protecting them is crucial for true climate justice worldwide. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/the-silent-burden-carried-by-women-in-climate-justice-cause-5397170
education 19 March 2026
Uganda's education system, once a regional envy, has deteriorated due to political interference and flawed implementation of the new competence-based curriculum. Critics highlight mismatches between teaching materials and exams, abandoned subjects, and misleading assessment results that mask widespread underperformance. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/why-new-curriculum-needs-serious-saviour-5396568
education 19 March 2026
The release of 2025 UACE results marks the end of a challenging high school era for over 165,000 Ugandan students, marked by Covid-19 disruptions that extended their studies to seven years. This milestone signals not an endpoint, but the start of diverse opportunities in higher education, vocational training, or entrepreneurship. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/our-high-school-journey-was-not-an-ordinary-one-5396426
education 18 March 2026
The heartbreaking death of A-level student Genevieve Juliana Mutyaba, who scored 19 out of 20 points, highlights the dangers of equating success with perfection. Columnist Daniel Kalinaki questions societal pressures on youth and calls for kinder expectations. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/daniel-kalinaki/must-success-be-defined-as-the-pursuit-of-perfection-i-think-not-5395568
opinion 18 March 2026
Uganda's youthful population stands as the nation's greatest asset for driving economic development, though cash handouts alone fall short in harnessing this potential. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/cash-handouts-can-only-do-so-much-5395302
opinion 17 March 2026
In the recent US-Israel-Iran conflict, Iran's low-cost Shahed drones force defenders to spend vastly more on interceptions, potentially draining massive portions of military budgets through sheer numbers. This asymmetric strategy highlights how economics now rivals physical strength on the battlefield. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/when-war-becomes-a-math-problem-5394780
Politics 17 March 2026
Bobi Wine has fled Uganda temporarily after hiding post-election, following a predictable pattern of opposition leaders challenging results, protesting, and seeking international support. Critics argue this repetitive 'Groundhog Day' strategy has failed to bring real change after two decades. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/bobi-wine-s-departure-same-old-play-cards-in-the-endless-liberation-drama-5394778
Politics 17 March 2026
National Unity Platform leader Bobi Wine fled Uganda after a contentious election and weeks in hiding, highlighting deep-seated issues of political repression and exile that continue to plague the nation 64 years post-independence. His departure underscores ongoing debates about citizenship, fear, and the unresolved identity of Uganda as a country. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/charles-onyango-obbo/bobi-wine-s-flight-reveals-the-unfinished-nation-5393960
energy 16 March 2026
Uganda faces a $2.1 billion vulnerability to oil supply shocks from conflicts paralyzing the Strait of Hormuz, despite reassurances from energy officials. Rising Brent crude prices and maritime risks threaten foreign reserves and pump prices, underscoring the need for energy diversification. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/the-illusion-of-immunity-uganda-s-exposure-to-global-oil-shocks-5392562
education 14 March 2026
Uganda's recent O-Level exam results show an explosion of top grades, but this surge signals falling standards rather than rising genius, warns commentator Gawaya Tegulle. Inflated marks risk eroding education credibility and misleading youth about their abilities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/race-for-speaker-restoring-decorum-impartiality-and-gravitas-to-the-office-5390520
Politics 13 March 2026
Uganda's Parliament has devolved into a mere facade, captured by personal interests and financial deals rather than serving the public good. The broader state apparatus faces similar paralysis, undermining democratic integrity across institutions. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/the-desecration-of-parliament-5390518
energy 13 March 2026
Escalating oil prices from the US-Israel-Iran conflict threaten Uganda's economy, exposing inadequate fuel storage that covers just days of demand despite UNOC upgrades. Authorities must scale reserves based on surging vehicle numbers and decentralize storage regionally. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/govt-should-consider-number-of-vehicles-as-it-fixes-fuel-storage-capacity-5390510