AFRICA/UGANDA - “In depth analysis of the vote shows some change in those in power”: 80 members of parliament lost their seats

Kampala (Fides Service)- “President Museveni’s victory did not come as a surprise but in depth analysis of the elections for parliament reveals that not all remained as it was. In fact 80 outgoing MPs were not re-elected. So there has been some change in those in power” says a local Church source in Kampala, capital of Uganda, where President Yoweri Museveni obtained a third mandate with 60% of the votes on 23 February (see Fides 23 February 2006). The people of Uganda were called to elect the head of state and 284 members of parliament.
“Even the fact that in the last election Museveni won with about 70% of the votes whereas this time he gained only 60% is a timid sign of change ” the sources say.
The President’s principal rival Kizza Besigye refused to recognise the results which he said were illegal and the result of fraud. Just before Besigye’s press conference police forces had to fire some shots in the air to disperse demonstrators protesting against Museveni’s victory. The electoral commission and numerous local and foreign observers say the vote was substantially fair. President Museveni has urged the Opposition to accept the results and avoid violence.
“It is probable that Besigye and his party may take legal steps and take the case to the High Court of Justice but to do this they will need substantial evidence to prove their accusations” the sources said. “In the meantime however Besigye must stand trial on charges of high treason, a trial suspended because of the election campaign and due to resume soon”.
“Although the re-election of the head of state was expected, the fact that 80 MPs of the old legislation were not re-elected and the Opposition won many votes in other cities and among young voters shows that Uganda, despite many difficulties is preparing to be governed by a new ruling class” the sources concluded. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 27/2/2006 righe 31 parole 379)