Ugandan Youth launch 40-day prayer campaign titled “Bye-bye Museveni” to peacefully challenge President Museveni’s 40-year rule.
Ugandan Youth are spearheading a 40-day nationwide prayer campaign to peacefully call for the end of President Yoweri Museveni’s 40-year rule.
The movement, titled “Bye-bye Museveni,” is scheduled to commence on June 1, 2025.
Organizers of the campaign, a coalition of young activists, say the initiative is spiritual, nonviolent, and open to Ugandans of all faiths.
They believe national unity through prayer can spark political change in the country.
The campaign will take place simultaneously in various districts.
It will include church vigils, mosque prayers, and interfaith gatherings focused on national reflection and transition.
The youth say President Museveni’s lengthy stay in power has weakened institutions, eroded freedoms, and failed to provide opportunities for the country’s growing population.
They argue that the time has come for generational leadership and democratic renewal.
“After 40 years, our hope is not in arms but in the prayers and voices of Ugandans,” said one campaign leader anonymously for fear of reprisal.
Uganda’s government has not officially responded.
However, political gatherings and activism remain heavily monitored by authorities.
Civil society observers say the campaign will test the country’s tolerance for dissent.
President Museveni, now 80, took power in 1986 and has ruled Uganda through several constitutional amendments that removed term and age limits.
He is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
Supporters credit him with stabilizing the country and growing the economy.
Critics say his rule has become increasingly authoritarian, marked by clampdowns on opposition and dissent.
The Ugandan Youth prayer campaign, if sustained, may become a rallying point for future political movements.
The campaign leaders have called on the public to share messages and participate peacefully without confrontation.
It remains unclear how security forces will handle the gatherings once they begin.
