Uganda's 2006 multiparty elections: consolidating democracy and building peace?

Abstract

Multiparty elections are generally perceived as a bedrock for democratization
and good governance, if conducted in a free, fair and genuine manner.
However, in conditions where such elections are shrouded in constitutional
manipulation, political opaqueness, greed and consolidation of personal rule,
they may instead, entrench an authoritarian regime. This article looks at the
effects of the recent multiparty elections on the process of democratization
and peace building in Uganda. It recognizes that both democratic governance
and peace have eluded Uganda for a long time. The article is built on the
background that Uganda's perennial socio-political crises have been partly a
result of the failure of the state to conduct free and fair elections. We conclude
that if the 2006 multiparty elections had been better organized, they could
have formed a milestone in furthering democracy and restoring peace and
order in this turmoil-ridden country, and that since this was not the case; the
prospect of mitigating the dangers of political conflicts will remain a maze.

East African Journal of Peace and Human rights Vol. 13 (1) 2007: pp. 54-80