Political and Regulatory Affairs Round-Up 

  • 6 Feb 2026
  • 3 Mins Read
  • 〜 by Agatha Gichana

Kenya 

ODM Rejects Uhuru-led Azimio Leadership Changes, Says Oburu Oginga was Not Consulted 

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has dismissed recent changes to the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya coalition political party as null and void. The party argues that the changes, effected by Azimio Council Chairman and retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, lacked the inclusion of all constituent Azimio parties. In a letter addressed to the Registrar of Political Parties, John Cox Lorianokou, the party sought the decision by Kenyatta frozen and suspended, maintaining that ODM party leader Dr Oburu Oginga was not consulted in the decision as required under the Azimio deed of agreement. 

(Source: Citizen Digital)  

 

Uganda 

Post-Election Tensions Escalate as Opposition Leader Remains in Hiding 

Uganda faces mounting political strain following its disputed January 2026 general elections. Opposition leader Bobi Wine remains in hiding after alleging a violent security raid on his home, while his supporters accuse authorities of voter intimidation and mass arrests. President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner with more than 70% of the vote, but opposition groups and international observers have challenged the results. Military officials have intensified rhetoric, raising concerns about instability and human rights violations. Civil society organisations report enforced disappearances and ongoing harassment of opposition members, underscoring growing fears about shrinking democratic space. 

(Sources: The Guardian; Associated Press; Human Rights Watch) 

 

Tanzania 

President Samia Seeks Diplomatic Reset After Controversial Election 

Tanzania’s government is attempting to rebuild its international reputation following a turbulent, violent election that drew criticism for its democratic standards. President Samia Suluhu Hassan recently embarked on diplomatic engagements aimed at restoring investor and diplomatic confidence. The election period was marred by allegations of repression against activists and foreign observers, highlighting broader concerns over governance transparency. Analysts say Tanzania’s administration is balancing efforts to strengthen its global image while managing domestic political tensions and criticism from regional democracy advocates. 

(Source: The EastAfrican) 

 

Rwanda 

Kagame Pushes for International Accountability on Regional Security 

Rwanda’s political focus remains centred on regional security tensions, particularly instability in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. President Paul Kagame has called on international institutions to address what he describes as unequal handling of conflicts in the region. Kigali continues to play an influential diplomatic and security role in Great Lakes politics, with officials warning that unresolved conflicts threaten regional stability. The situation reflects Rwanda’s continued involvement in cross-border security discussions and broader geopolitical positioning within East Africa. 

(Source: The EastAfrican) 

 

Ethiopia 

Renewed Violence in Oromia Deepens Governance and Security Crisis 

Ethiopia faces escalating instability as clashes between government forces and the Oromo Liberation Army intensify in the Oromia region. Reports indicate widespread human-rights violations, including executions, abductions, and sexual violence by both sides. Restricted humanitarian and media access has limited reporting, worsening civilian vulnerability. Millions of children remain out of school due to the violence, and infrastructure destruction continues to undermine public services. The conflict has further strained national unity and raised questions about Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s ability to stabilise one of the country’s largest and politically sensitive regions. 

(Source: Associated Press) 

 

Sudan  

International Sanctions and Continued Conflict Intensify Political Crisis 

Sudan’s civil conflict remains a major regional security concern, prompting new sanctions targeting both the army and the paramilitary leadership, accused of prolonging violence. The war has displaced millions and triggered severe humanitarian shortages. International organisations and rights groups warn that ongoing impunity for war crimes risks prolonging instability. The conflict has also drawn regional and international actors, complicating peace negotiations. Humanitarian agencies continue to highlight civilian suffering, with Sudan remaining one of Africa’s most urgent political and governance crises. 

(Sources: Reuters; Human Rights Watch; AllAfrica) 

 

Somalia 

International Security and Migration Policies Raise Political Concerns 

Somalia remains under pressure from both domestic insecurity and international policy developments. The United States recently expanded visa restrictions affecting Somali nationals, reflecting broader security and migration concerns. Meanwhile, the country continues to confront threats from militant groups, which remain a central regulatory and governance challenge. International security partnerships and counterterrorism measures continue to shape Somalia’s political landscape, as authorities attempt to balance stability with democratic reforms and regional cooperation. 

(Source: The Africa Report)