Dan Kauna

The detention of key political opponents during an election cycle is a recurring phenomenon in several African nations.

This tactic, which sees presidential aspirants jailed, placed under house arrest, or legally entangled immediately before, during, or after a vote, is again in focus as Tanzania heads to the polls.

As Tanzanians prepare to vote in their general election on October 29, 2025, one of the country's most prominent opposition figures, Tundu Lissu, is in prison.

Here are some of the continent's most high-profile cases where presidential aspirants were locked up during the election period.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/tundu-lissus-biography-political-journey-assassination-attempt-and-legacy-2025051911470424834">Tundu Lissu, the chairman of Tanzania's main opposition party</a>, Chadema, is currently in detention as the country holds its general election.

Tundu Lissu, CHADEMA Chaiman & barred Tanzanian presidential aspirant

Lissu was arrested on April 9, 2025, after addressing a public rally calling for constitutional and electoral reforms under the banner 'No Reforms, No Elections'.

He was subsequently charged with treason and publishing false information, charges that carry a potential death penalty.

Lissu, who <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/world/tanzanian-opposition-figure-returns-from-exile-to-run-for-president-2024082102491702980">was the main opposition candidate in the 2020 election</a>, was expected to be a primary contender for the presidency again.

Following his arrest, his party, Chadema, was barred from participating in the October 2025 polls.

On October 24, 2025, just days before the election, Tanzania's High Court adjourned his treason trial to November 3, 2025.

The decision ensures that Lissu, who has been in remand prison for over six months, remains incarcerated throughout the entire election process.

<h3>Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal, 2024)</h3>

In one of the most dramatic political turnarounds, Bassirou Diomaye Faye was elected President of Senegal on March 24, 2024, just days after being released from prison.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye (centre), and his wives, Marie Khone Faye (right) and Absa Faye (left) [VOA]

Faye was arrested in April 2023, nearly a year before the election.

He was charged with 'contempt of court, defamation, and acts likely to compromise public peace' after he published a social media post criticising the judiciary's handling of a case against his party's leader, Ousmane Sonko.

When Sonko was himself jailed and disqualified from running, he named the imprisoned Faye as his replacement candidate.

Faye's candidacy was validated by Senegal's Constitutional Council while he was still in prison.

Following intense public pressure and widespread protests against the election's postponement, an amnesty law was passed.

Faye was released from prison on March 14, 2024, just 10 days before the rescheduled election.

He won the presidency in the first round.

<h3>Robert Kyagulanyi / Bobi Wine (Uganda, 2021)</h3>

Robert Kyagulanyi, the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/world/ugandas-popstar-mp-bobi-wine-to-contest-2021-presidential-vote-2024081811230717902">was the main challenger in Uganda</a>'s January 14, 2021, general election.

NUP Leader & Musician Robert 'Bobi Wine' Kyagulanyi

While his campaign was marked by <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/world/uganda-police-arrest-pop-star-mp-bobi-wine-teargas-supporters-2024081913432583607">multiple arrests and violent confrontations with security forces</a>, the most critical detention occurred immediately after the vote.

As vote counting began, military and police forces surrounded Kyagulanyi's home, placing him under house arrest.

Uganda Police arrest Robert 'Bobi Wine' Kyagulanyi

He was held in his home for 11 days, unable to meet with his party officials or lawyers to prepare a legal challenge to the results being announced.

Authorities stated the detention was a 'preventive measure' to stop him from inciting violence.

Uganda's High Court later ruled that the house arrest was illegal.

<h3>Kizza Besigye (Uganda, 2016 &amp; 2006)</h3>

Dr Kizza Besigye, the four-time presidential candidate for the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has been a principal example of this phenomenon.

Veteran Ugandan politician, Colonel (Rtd) Dr Kizza Besigye (right) appears in Martial Court alongside his aide Obeid Lutale (left)

His campaigns in 2006 and 2016 stand out.

<ul><li>2016 Election: Besigye was arrested multiple times in the week of the February 18, 2016, election, including on polling day itself. Immediately after the vote, he was placed under house arrest for over 40 days as the results were declared. He was later jailed in a state prison and charged with treason after holding a mock 'swearing-in' ceremony.</li></ul>

<ul><li>2006 Election: After returning from exile to run for president, Besigye was arrested in November 2005. He was charged with treason, concealment of treason, and rape. Besigye was famously nominated as the FDC's presidential candidate while he was in prison. He was granted bail by the High Court on January 2, 2006, allowing him only weeks to campaign before the February election. The rape charge was later dismissed.</li></ul>

Reckya Madougou was the chosen presidential candidate for Les Démocrates (The Democrats), Benin's largest opposition party, for the April 2021 election.

She was arrested on March 3, 2021, just weeks before the poll, after her candidacy had been formally filed.

Authorities accused her of 'financing terrorism' and plotting to disrupt the election by assassinating political figures.

In December 2021, Madougou was sentenced to 20 years in prison by a special court.

She remains imprisoned, with human rights organisations and her supporters maintaining the charges were politically motivated to remove the incumbent's most significant challenger.

These cases highlight a recurring pattern across the continent where the electoral period is marked by the detention of key opposition presidential aspirants.

Veteran Ugandan politician, Colonel (Rtd) Dr Kizza Besigye, behind bars at the General Court Martial at Makindye, Kampala on November 20, 2024

Running for president in some African nations carries unique risks. From Tundu Lissu's current detention in Tanzania to a remarkable election in Senegal, here is a look at prominent candidates who faced jail time as their countries took to the polls.

Africa's detained aspirants: Presidential hopefuls locked up during elections

Denis Mwangi

During the official launch of Raila Odinga's bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship at State House, Nairobi, Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni publicly accused Kenyan Member of Parliament Babu Owino of collaborating with anti-National Resistance Movement (NRM) groups in Uganda.

The accusations came as President Museveni addressed a distinguished audience that included President William Ruto, other heads of state, former presidents, diplomats, and government representatives.

Museveni, known for his candid and straightforward manner, expressed his concerns about <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/babu-owino-on-relationship-with-raila-as-kalozo-and-karua-mull-azimios-future-without/64bsn0k">certain individuals within Raila Odinga's circle</a>, questioning their activities and alliances.

President William Ruto hosted African leaders at State House for the official launch of Raila Odinga's AUC chairperson bid

"There are some individuals in Raila's group who I don't think know what they are doing," Museveni remarked.

"You know, I am a consumer of intelligence services. So I always see intelligence service reports. There's a character called Babu. I always see Babu dealing with anti-NRM groups. I have never accused him, but now I am accusing Babu."

The statement from President Museveni, who has been in power in Uganda since 1986 and is a staunch leader of the NRM, sparked immediate reactions.

Babu Owino, a vocal and often controversial figure in Kenyan politics, is a member of Parliament representing Embakasi East Constituency.

He has been known for his robust support of Raila Odinga and the opposition in Kenya.

<h3>Babu Owino's influences in Uganda</h3>

Babu Owino has had notable influences in Uganda, primarily through his association with Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine.

Owino has publicly supported Bobi Wine's stance against the Ugandan government's actions, particularly under President Yoweri Museveni, which he views as oppressive.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Bobi Wine

Owino's vocal support for Bobi Wine and criticism of the Ugandan government have resulted in significant backlash.

In 2018, he was <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/i-will-wear-a-hijab-and-sneak-into-uganda-babu-owino-on-musevenis-ban/tyzh8r6">banned from entering Uganda due to his ties with Bobi Wine</a>, reflecting the Ugandan government's sensitivity to external influences that could bolster opposition movements.&nbsp;

This ban indicate the extent of his perceived influence and the Ugandan authorities' concern over his activities.

A collage of President Yoweri Museveni and Babu Owino

President Yoweri Museveni, known for his candid and straightforward manner, expressed his concerns about some members of Raila's circle.

Babu Owino rattles President Yoweri Museveni

Lynet Okumu

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni's stern warning to the nation's Gen Zs to "stop playing with fire" became reality when planned anti-government demonstrations were met with a severe crackdown.

Following in Kenya's footsteps, Ugandan youths organised a protest against corruption and human rights abuses, leading to widespread detentions and a significant police presence.

<h3>The Uganda protests &amp; government response</h3>

On July 23, Ugandan security forces detained several young people in downtown Kampala who participated in a banned rally.

These protests, organised by young Ugandans, aimed to address the government's handling of corruption cases.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">HAPPENING NOW: The first successful Uganda protestor to reach Parliament premises during the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/March2Parliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#March2Parliament</a> protests arrested <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OccupyJKIA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OccupyJKIA</a> <a href="https://t.co/FTa3lgVMCP">pic.twitter.com/FTa3lgVMCP</a>&mdash; Joeros TV (@JoerosTv) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoerosTv/status/1815682501924225340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Protesters held placards and shouted slogans denouncing corruption, with one participant wearing a T-shirt reading 'Speaker Must Resign'.

A video posted by NTV Uganda on the social media platform X showed a small group of young people intercepted as they attempted to head to the Uganda Parliament and detained by police while marching.

The authorities have not confirmed the exact number of detainees, though social media reports suggest they will be held until July 30, 2024.

Young people protesting against corruption and human rights abuse in Kampala Uganda on July 23, 2024 (Source -X)

<h3>Heavy security deployment in Kampala</h3>

Authorities had banned the planned protest, citing intelligence indicating that criminally-minded youths might hijack it to loot and vandalise.

Soldiers and police were deployed around the parliament building and in the center of Kampala to deter any protesters.

On July 22, police sealed off the offices of Uganda's biggest opposition party, accusing it of mobilising for the protests and detaining some party officials, including lawmakers.

All roads leading to the parliament were blocked off, with only lawmakers and parliamentary staff having access.

NTV Uganda images showed military armored personnel carriers patrolling the area. Business owners near the parliament faced difficulties accessing their premises due to the heavy security measures.

<h3>Opposition leaders in Uganda speak out</h3>

Opposition leaders and rights activists have long accused President Museveni of failing to tackle corruption effectively.

They argue that embezzlement and misuse of government funds are rampant and that Museveni often protects corrupt senior officials who are loyal to him.

Museveni, however, has repeatedly denied condoning corruption, insisting that whenever there is sufficient evidence, even high-ranking officials are prosecuted.

A Ugandan lady during the July 23, 2024 protests in Kampala

<h3>Historical context &amp; current situation</h3>

Uganda has made history after taking to the streets to call out the long-serving president, Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986.

The country's youth, particularly those involved in the recent protests, are demanding accountability and transparency from their leaders.

The recent protests in Uganda, much like those in Kenya, highlight the frustration of the younger generation with corruption and governance issues.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">courage ✊🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/march2parliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#march2parliament</a> || <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stopcorruption?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stopcorruption</a> 🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/SolomonSerwanjj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@solomonserwanjj</a> <a href="https://t.co/gS1zKFU6cU">pic.twitter.com/gS1zKFU6cU</a>&mdash; justice hunter 🇺🇬🇺🇸 (@hillarytaylorvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/hillarytaylorvi/status/1815703068991729894?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely to see how the Ugandan government responds to these demands for change and whether it will address the underlying issues that sparked the protests.

Ugandan protests in pictures (Source - CNBC Africa, X)

How Uganda’s young generation is challenging President Yoweri Museveni

Uganda protests: Youth demands for change meet government's grit

<ul><li>President Yoweri Museveni compared Africa to a house divided into many rooms, highlighting the need for African unity</li><li>He used a metaphor to underline the irrationality of current African borders and the need for closer collaboration among nations</li><li>A tripartite agreement was signed with President Ruto to allow importation and transit of refined petroleum products through Kenya to Uganda.</li></ul>

During his state visit to Kenya on May 16, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni used a unique analogy to highlight the need for African unity.

Addressing a the media alongside President William Ruto, Museveni compared Africa to a house divided into many rooms, each representing a different country.

His compelling metaphor aimed to underline the irrationality of current African borders and the need for closer collaboration among nations.

President William Ruto hosted President Yoweri Museveni at State House, Nairobi on May 16, 2024

President Museveni captivated his audience with a vivid comparison.

He said, "Africa is amazing because Africa is one house, one building. Now, the sitting room is another country. The bedroom is another country. The other one is another country. Now, to go from the bedroom to the outside, you must go to another country. We must get a visa. What is this now?"

This analogy painted a clear picture of the fragmented nature of African countries, making it difficult for citizens to move freely and trade across borders.

He emphasised that Uganda is part of Kenya, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), but the current borders act like walls separating rooms in a house.

Museveni's visit was marked by the signing of a tripartite agreement with President Ruto.

This pact allows the importation and transit of refined petroleum products through Kenya to Uganda.

The agreement aims to resolve ongoing disputes and boost bilateral trade, marking a significant step towards regional cooperation.

Museveni’s speech was not just about trade but also about a broader vision for Africa. He stressed the importance of forming an East African Federation to solve common problems.

"If we had formed the East Africa Federation, we wouldn’t have the problems we have now," he said.

He pointed out that smaller countries in Europe, like Denmark and Belgium, benefit from the protection and support of larger allies, in this case, the United States.

He asked a critical question: "Who is the head boy in Africa here? We are all small people, small people. That's what we are really trying to deal with."

Museveni highlighted three historical missions that African countries should rally behind; prosperity through wealth creation and market access, strategic security, and utilising brotherhood.

He urged African leaders not to waste the current opportunity for unity and development. "Before, opportunity was wasted, and we should not waste this opportunity now. Nobody will be left behind," he asserted.

Museveni reiterated that by focusing on unity and collaboration, Africa can overcome its challenges and create a brighter future for all its people.

Ugandan President Museveni's Unique Analogy for African Unity

President Museveni shares unique bedroom analogy during state visit to Kenya

Google has released its annual Year in Search for 2023, providing a fascinating glimpse into the interests and concerns that captivated Kenyans throughout the year.

The lists, revealing the top trending searches both locally and globally, sheds light on the events, personalities, and topics that dominated online conversations.

Topping the list of local personalities is the dynamic <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/millicent-omangas-biography-political-career-net-worth-husband-children/tgchhy3">Millicent Omanga, a Kenyan businesswoman and politician</a>.

Her prominence soared after an intimate video circulated on social media, sparking a wave of discussions and speculations among netizens.

Following closely is <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/pastor-ezekiel-odero-gives-rare-glimpse-into-his-private-life/meh3ny8">Pastor Ezekiel</a>, the Kenyan televangelist and founder of the New Life Prayer Centre and Church.

His arrest and subsequent closure of his church by the government, linked to the Shakahola Cult massacre, created significant online buzz.

The saga concluded with his release after the completion of investigations, as recommended by the prosecution.

Faith Kipyegon, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/sports/faith-kipyegon-dedicates-new-word-record-at-the-wanda-diamond-league-2023-to-mothers/qxqp2g8">the three-time world record holder</a> in middle-distance running, claimed the sixth spot.

Faith Kipyegon after successfully defending her World Championships title in Oregon

Her remarkable achievement of winning the World Athletics Championships 1500m and 5000m titles, marking the first-ever 1,500-5,000 meters double at the World Championships by a woman, captivated the nation.

On the global front, the top trending personalities showcase a mix of sports stars, political figures, and entertainment personalities.

Ukrainian footballer Mudryk leads the list, grabbing headlines during a transfer saga that saw Arsenal and Chelsea vying for his signature.

Chelsea ultimately secured the £87 million deal, hijacking Arsenal's proposed move for the winger.

English footballer Declan Rice follows closely, making waves with his record-breaking transfer from WestHam to Arsenal in a British record fee of £105 million.

Ugandan President Museveni also features on the list, drawing international attention for signing an anti-LGBTQ+ law with a death penalty for same-sex acts, a move that sparked condemnation both locally and globally.

The sports category was dominated by the Rugby World Cup in France and the notable successes of Saudi Arabian football club Al Nassr, which acquired renowned players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Aymeric Laporte, and Sadio Mané.

In education, searches related to higher education financing, teacher performance appraisal systems, and national examinations took center stage.

The HEF portal, TPAD 2, and NEMIS emerged as the most searched terms, reflecting Kenyans' keen interest in accessing educational resources and opportunities.

The year's most searched losses by Kenyans included the <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/family-confirms-death-of-former-education-cs-professor-george-magoha/ezt71p8">death of former Cabinet Secretary for Education, George Magoha</a>, followed by South African rapper Costa Titch in March.

Former Education CS the late Professor George Magoha

The demise of Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu, found dead under his home in Southern Turkey following a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, also resonated strongly in online searches.

Google's Year in Search for 2023 not only captures the pulse of Kenyan interests but also reflects the global stories that left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of internet users in the country.

Below are the full lists of Top 10 Trending Searches by Kenyans in 2023:

Trending Local Personalities

Trending Global Personalities

Trending Movies &amp; TV Shows

Trending Education

Pulse Picks features a list of the post searched Kenyan celebs on Google including Millicent Omanga, Pastor Ezekiel, DJ Fatxo, Georgina Njenga, Pastor Mackenzie, Faith Kipyegon, Fred Matiang'i, Wafula Chebukati, Martha Koome, and Mathe Wa Ngara

Most searched Kenyans on Google in 2023[Pulse Picks]

The recent decision by the Ugandan government to reduce its reliance on Kenya for the importation of its petroleum products is expected to cause significant ripple effects in Kenya.

Currently, Uganda imports 90% of its petroleum products through the port of Mombasa and the rest through the Port of Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania.&nbsp;

However, the country is looking to fortify its control over the supply of petroleum products.

The move, detailed in the Petroleum Supply (Amendment) Bill, 2023, approved by the Cabinet on Monday, October 23, is poised to impact the dynamics of petroleum trade in the region.

President William Ruto with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni

Uganda's strategic maneuver involves mandating the Uganda National Oil Company Limited (UNOC) to take a central role in sourcing and supplying petroleum products to licensed Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

This departure from the status quo is anticipated to have far-reaching consequences for Kenya, which has been a crucial player in Uganda's petroleum importation.

The existing importation structures have seen licensed Ugandan OMCs accessing their import allocations through affiliated Kenyan OMCs.

The policy shift in Uganda was triggered by Kenya’s decision to replace the Open Tender System with a <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/inside-kenyas-deal-with-saudi-aramco-abu-dhabi-national-oil-company/3x6cxzj">government-to-government importation arrangement with the United Arab Emirates</a> and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

“It exposed Uganda to occasional supply vulnerabilities where the Ugandan OMCs were considered secondary whenever there were supply disruptions. These vulnerabilities paused additional challenges, resulting in Uganda receiving relatively costly products and ultimately impacting the retail pump prices,” said Uganda’s Minister Of Energy And Mineral Development Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu.

Uganda’s Minister Of Energy And Mineral Development Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu.

In the new plan, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development in Uganda will retain its regulatory role in overseeing petroleum product importation, while UNOC will take charge of sourcing and supplying products to licensed OMCs.&nbsp;

The new deal also guarantees buffer stocks in Uganda and Tanzania, minimizing the impact of potential supply disruptions.&nbsp;

Eyes are now on Uganda’s Parliament as the proposal goes through the necessary approvals.

Uganda Cabinet approves plan to cut oil imports via Mombasa. Currently, Uganda imports 90% of its petroleum products through the port of Mombasa

Ruto's deal with Gulf countries forces Uganda to cut oil imports via Mombasa

President William Ruto visited State House in Uganda on Sunday, August 13 to hold talks with his Ugandan counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni.&nbsp;

This high-level meeting comes just a week after former President Uhuru Kenyatta's visit to Uganda on August 6, 2023.

President Ruto left for Uganda in the afternoon after attending a church service in Karen.

The discussions, held behind closed doors, centred around strengthening bilateral ties between Kenya and Uganda, as well as addressing regional matters of mutual interest.&nbsp;

President William Ruto visited State House in Uganda on Sunday, August 13 to hold talks with his Ugandan counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni.

“Kenya and Uganda have a firm partnership based on decades of East African brotherhood, strong cooperation, and consistent engagement.

“Held talks with President Kaguta Museveni on matters of mutual interest, especially trade, security and agriculture,” President Ruto said in a post on social media.

On his part, President Museveni said the two leaders discussed “bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest”.

The timing of President Ruto's visit, soon after Museveni’s meeting with former President Kenyatta has caused speculation among political pundits.&nbsp;

Observers note that the back-to-back meetings could also have featured the political situation in Kenya, with President Ruto and his predecessor Kenyatta on different sides of the political divide.&nbsp;

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta visited State House in Uganda on  August 6, 2023 to hold talks with his Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni.

<h3>Raila Odinga meets U.S. Senator Chris Coons </h3>

On Sunday, Azimio la Umoja leader <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/raila-meets-2018-handshake-senator-chris-coons-ahead-of-azimio-kenya-kwanza-talks/h18n0sc">Raila Odinga held talks with Delaware Senator Chris Coons </a>who is widely regarded as the architect of the March 2018 handshake.

Coons was instrumental in brokering a truce between Odinga and retired President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018 after a hotly contested election that left the nation divided.

The Delaware Senator is widely regarded as the brains behind the 2018 agreement between Raila and Uhuru after convincing the duo to put their political differences aside and work together, resulting in a period of relative political calm.

According to credible sources, Senator Coons is expected to meet with President Ruto at State House on Monday morning, August 14.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga with Senator Chris Coons on Sunday, August 13, 2023

Ruto meets Museveni days after Uhuru's visit to State House Uganda

Charles Ouma

President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda was impressed by Kenya’s second lady, Pastor Dorcas Gachagua who graced an event at State House in Uganda and preached during the event.

Museveni heaped praises on Pastor Dorcas after she graced the launch of the Jesus’ Africa book written by Museveni's daughter, Patience Rwabwogo.

The Ugandan president hailed Pastor Dorcas as a firebrand and a powerful cadre, promising to take advantage of her pastoring skills.

He also recounted his first meeting with Pastor Dorcas when he came into the country for the swearing in of President William Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua.

He noted that at the time, Pastor Dorcas did not speak.

“And I am very happy to see Pastor Rigathi. I didn’t know <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/ruto-challenges-dp-gachagua-and-gov-waiguru-to-utilise-new-kerugoya-hospital/f6xqr85">we have a firebrand in Kenya</a>. When we were swearing in their new government, she didn’t speak.

"Now, I am surprised to see a very powerful cadre here&nbsp;here. I will take advantage of your pastoring skills," Museveni stated.

Pastor Dorcas Rigathi with other dignitaries at State House in Uganda

The second lady who was the keynote speaker at the event also praised president Museveni and his wife Janet Kataaha for imparting Christian values in their daughter.

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/pastor-dorcas-gachagua-insists-she-conquered-counters-dp-gachaguas-heart-first/gb5r4zc">Pastor Dorcas counters DP Gachagua's claim that he conquered her heart first</a>

She added that the well-written book which details the author’s journey in Christianity will empower readers and inspire many to serve.

"Patience prophetically envisions a rising African continent, echoing the divine revelation she received in 2005, which inspired her to pen this book.

"We celebrate her parents, for nurturing such a rare gem. Indeed, it is said that you shall know them by their fruits," she said.

According to the author, the book also includes a transcription of messages received at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic when many countries, including Uganda went on lockdown.

"We transcribed the messages into a book, and the Lord convicted me to include my journey.&nbsp;

"It is easy to teach, but to share your personal journey is opening yourself up to be vulnerable. That was a bit of a challenge for me," Patience said in an interview with&nbsp;New Vision.&nbsp;

Yoweri Museveni

Africa's detained aspirants: Presidential hopefuls locked up during elections

Babu Owino rattles President Yoweri Museveni

Uganda protests: Youth demands for change meet government's grit

President Museveni shares unique bedroom analogy during state visit to Kenya

Most searched Kenyans on Google in 2023[Pulse Picks]

Ruto's deal with Gulf countries forces Uganda to cut oil imports via Mombasa

Ruto meets Museveni days after Uhuru's visit to State House Uganda

Dorcas Gachagua impresses Museveni at State House in Uganda

Museveni issues demands to Kenya in 18-page Executive Order

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