The Teso region and Uganda at large stands at the crossroads of political transformation, with a new generation of leaders rising to replace the old guard that has dominated Uganda’s leadership landscape for decades as seen in the NRM CEC Elections.

This shift is fuelled by widespread frustration among the population, which is majorly youth, who believe that their struggles today are the direct consequence of hollow promises and unfulfilled commitments made by leaders of yesterday.

Yet, the pressing question remains will this generational change usher in genuine transformation lifting households out of poverty and restoring dignity or will it simply perpetuate the old patterns of patronage, corruption, and stagnation under new faces? Fresh perspectives and innovative ideas may indeed accompany the emerging leaders, but they will still have to navigate the treacherous waters of Uganda’s deeply entrenched political culture.

Transitions in leadership are never without turbulence. The National Resistance Movement (NRM), which ascended to power in 1986, undeniably altered the country’s trajectory, but its legacy has been marred by persistent accusations of corruption, impunity, and the erosion of institutions meant to safeguard accountability. Over time, a class of political demi-gods has entrenched itself leaders who have kept Uganda in the grip of patronage, stifling true progress.

The youth, eager for change, often allow passion to eclipse prudence. Many are being seduced with money and mobilized to endorse leaders whose rhetoric sounds transformative, yet whose true intentions remain untested. Herein lies the danger ‘change without substance is no change at all’.

What Uganda needs is not a revolution of guns or chaos, but a revolution of the mind. A revolution that uproots the culture of corruption and instils in our governance system the uncompromising principle of accountability. The Iteso have a saying, “Ejijim akitukes konye aswam be” a reminder that fiery speeches may impress the ear, but it is actions that ultimately reveal true leadership.

The young generation has the potential to champion this mental revolution. But potential alone is not enough. They must adopt a discerning lens scrutinizing the track records, policies, and moral integrity of those who aspire to lead. Empty promises must no longer suffice. Uganda’s youth must demand vision anchored in policy, not platitudes; service, not self-enrichment; and accountability, not excuses.

The road ahead is not an easy one. But it is precisely in moments of transition that history is written. Will Ugandans continue to be swayed by shallow promises and short-term inducements? Or will they rise to demand a new social contract one where leadership is a call to service, not an avenue for personal gain?

The future of Teso & Uganda at large hangs on the answer.

Omecha Menelik

frankjonahomecha@gmail.com 

(Writer is a researcher, Political Analyst, Pan-Africanism & A patriot)