Witchcraft Shapes Political Power in Uganda, South Sudan, Zambia

In Uganda's political landscape, spiritual beliefs and fears of witchcraft play a significant role in the conduct and strategies of candidates. Wilson Watira, a politician seeking a parliamentary seat, recounted an incident where a rival avoided shaking his hand, fearing it might transfer misfortune or give Watira an advantage, illustrating the deep-seated anxiety surrounding witchcraft among politicians. Public political contests in Uganda are often marked by loud processions and voter inducements, but behind the scenes, many candidates engage in spiritual practices including ritual sacrifices and consultations with traditional healers to secure victory. This phenomenon reflects a broader cultural syncretism where many Ugandans who attend Christian churches also secretly seek traditional occult services, a practice that confounds church leaders who see these beliefs as incompatible with Christianity. The intertwining of faith, superstition, and politics creates a challenging environment for candidates who must navigate both public campaigning and spiritual warfare. These dynamics highlight the complex role of religion and traditional beliefs in Ugandan politics and society.