Western Media Discovers 'Elections' in Uganda, Not 'Stability'
The Financial Times notes Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni is on track for a seventh term, amidst 'internet blackout, widespread reports of rigging and intimidation and opposition arrests.' (Source: FT, Jan 16, 2026). What the FT politely overlooks is that this 'stability' has been largely bankrolled and politically endorsed by the West for decades. Museveni, in power since 1986, has been a key
US ally in regional counter-terrorism efforts, receiving substantial military aid. His human rights record and democratic deficits were often secondary to his role in 'stabilizing' East Africa. One might wonder if the concern over 'rigging' extends to the consistent flow of arms and diplomatic support that ensures such 'leaders' can remain in power for 40 years. It seems that 'democracy' is less
about free elections and more about who keeps the region aligned with Western interests. A strongman is only a strongman when he's no longer useful, it appears.