Political and Regulatory Affairs Round Up: Issue No. 33 of 2026
Kenya
Scramble for Maa: Ruto, Gachagua Race to Fill Raila Void
The political battle for the Maa vote is intensifying as President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua seek to fill the political vacuum left by Raila Odinga. With Raila’s influence and political alignment shifting, the two leaders are increasingly courting Maa communities, viewing the bloc as strategically important to the evolving alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.
(Source: Daily Nation)
Uganda
Witness Claims Besigye Gave Museveni’s Movements to Plotters
A prosecution witness in Uganda’s treason trial has alleged that opposition politician Kizza Besigye disclosed President Yoweri Museveni’s movements to individuals involved in a plan to assassinate him and seize power. The witness, Andrew Wilson, told the court that the alleged plot included attacks, the mobilisation of boda boda riders and plans to create unrest after targeting the President. Besigye and his co-accused have denied the allegations.
(Source: Daily Monitor)
Tanzania
Lissu Challenges Credibility of Prosecution Witnesses
Chadema leader Tundu Lissu has challenged the credibility of witnesses testifying against him in his treason trial, questioning the prosecution’s decision to rely on protected witnesses and police officers whom he claims have personal or institutional interests against him. Lissu also alleged that some civilian witnesses had previously been arrested over alleged criminal plans but were released after agreeing to testify against him.
(Source: The Citizen)
Rwanda
Kagame: Africa Must Hold Leaders Accountable for Failing to Deliver
President Paul Kagame has called for stronger accountability among African leaders, arguing that sovereignty should not shield governments from scrutiny when they fail to deliver for their citizens. Speaking at the Africa Mindset Reset Forum in Kigali on August 25, 2026, Kagame said Africa’s challenge is increasingly turning existing resources, policies and ideas into tangible results. He urged leaders and citizens to confront failures in governance and implementation rather than accept poor outcomes.
(Source: The New Times)
Ethiopia
US Urges Compromise in Tigray as TPLF Sets Conditions for AU-Led Talks
The United States has backed renewed African Union efforts to ease tensions in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, urging Ethiopian and Tigrayan leaders to compromise and prioritise humanitarian needs and the safe return of displaced people. The call follows AU envoy Olusegun Obasanjo’s visit to Mekelle. At the same time, the TPLF has demanded security de-escalation, the restoration of contested territories, the return of displaced people and the restoration of its legal status before formal negotiations. The renewed diplomatic push comes amid concerns over possible escalation and reports of fresh military activity in the region.
(Source: The Reporter)
Sudan
Sudan’s Burhan Pushes National Dialogue as Political Forces Seek a Broader Peace Process
Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, is pushing for an inclusive national dialogue as military gains against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) reshape the country’s political landscape. Burhan has offered legal and security guarantees to encourage political participation. Still, several civilian and anti-war groups have rejected the initiative, arguing that meaningful talks should follow a ceasefire and involve all major political forces. The African Union is also seeking a greater role in Sudan’s political transition as international pressure grows for the warring sides to negotiate an end to the conflict.
(Source: Sudan Tribune)
Somalia
Prime Minister Hamza Departs for Qatar on Official Visit
Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has departed for Qatar on an official visit to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation between the two countries. The visit comes as Mogadishu continues to deepen diplomatic and economic ties with Doha, with discussions expected to focus on areas of mutual interest and broader regional cooperation.
(Source: SONNA)
