“A Nation of Zombies!” Kabuleta Tears Into Museveni’s Uganda.

As Uganda’s economy faces mounting pressure and the shilling trades above 4,000 against the US dollar, former presidential candidate Joseph Kabuleta is warning that the situation could deteriorate further, raising the possibility of the exchange rate reaching 5,000 shillings per dollar. Kabuleta says economic activity has ground to a halt and argues that the country’s political and economic paralysis is connected to what he sees as Museveni’s preparations to hand power to his son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba. In Kabuleta’s view, Museveni’s determination to secure his son’s succession could leave Uganda devastated. He warns that the president could leave the country in ruins rather than relinquish control without securing the future he wants for his family. Kabuleta also describes Uganda as a “nation of zombies,” arguing that institutions may appear functional on paper while those occupying positions of authority lack the independence or courage to challenge the president. He contends that Museveni’s control over state institutions has left powerful officials afraid to confront him. His conclusion is uncompromising: Kabuleta portrays Museveni as a leader whose determination to retain power threatens the country’s future. The central question is whether Uganda’s economic difficulties and concentration of political power are setting the stage for a succession crisis—or whether the country’s institutions can withstand the pressure and safeguard its future.