By Bryson Jumbe
At 73, and after standing for five (5) terms, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda seems to be gearing up for a sixth term in office.
The only hurdle to his ambition is the constitution, which limits presidential candidates to the age cap of 75 years.
But even the constitution is under threat as all is being done to pave way for Mr Museveni to stand in 2021.
But even the constitution is under threat as all is being done to pave way for Mr Museveni to stand in 2021.
This is one of the many examples in Africa, whereby leaders attempt to usurp power even after completing their mandated tenures.
For example, Joseph Kabila of DRC finished his second and last term of office in December 2016, but he is President to date.
Yahya Jammeh of The Gambia had to be forced out of power into exile. After 22 years in power, he accepted election defeat before changing his mind.
Elsewhere, things are different of course with some problems here and there.
At 56, former US president Barack Obama is currently enjoying his retirement package.
Some even stand down once there is a major policy change different from their political ideology. A great example is that of former UK's PM David Cameron, who resigned once the 'Yes' won the Brexit referendum.
It could be argued that our friends have mature democracies and institutions, but it is more than that. Our friends care more about preserving their integrity. They have a good sense of public service and duty, putting the interest of the public above self-interests.
Considering the many cases that we have had of leaders hanging on to power unnecessarily, Africa is becoming more synonymous with power hungry.
Let's hope that Mr Museveni will surprise us and peacefully step aside upon expiration of his term.
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