Uganda: No - Party State or One - Party State?

On 29 June 2000, Ugandans voted in a political referendum on the country’s system of governance. The overwhelming support shown for President Yoweri Museveni’s movement system of government raises important questions about the form of governance which operates within Uganda. For some, it is a unique and appropriate system suited to the particular circumstances and instability which have characterised Uganda’s political history; others see it as no more than camouflage for a one-party state. President Museveni’s position is both controversial and unique and warrants closer attention. The Museveni regime has been largely insulated from international pressure to reform its political system, unlike neighbouring Kenya which has been subjected to intense pressure to institute a multi-party democratic system. This is a reflection of the crisis of governance that has beleaguered Uganda and dominated much of its independent history as well as a recognition by the international community that Uganda is well on its way to recovery and that the Museveni government needs to be supported