US EditionIn African Politics, the Rampant Belief in Witchcraft Fortifies some and Vexes Others
EASTERN UGANDA, JUL 15 – Four suspects were arrested after the murder of a 70-year-old woman accused of witchcraft amid rising use of spiritual rituals by political candidates, researchers say.
- Peace Khalayi, a Catholic candidate, is running to represent women in Uganda's Parliament and rejects witchcraft in her campaign.
- As Uganda approaches its 2026 elections, some politicians turn to witch doctors for supernatural help, while others, like Khalayi, rely on prayer and fasting.
- Eastern Uganda's traditional healer Rosie Mukite reports a sharp rise in political hopefuls seeking rituals believed to boost electoral success amid widespread belief in witchcraft.
- Researcher Steven Masiga observes a 'crazy reliance on witch doctors' across Ugandan communities, though public association with such practices remains sensitive and controversial.
- The growing use of spiritual methods suggests intense behind-the-scenes competition for political power, yet some candidates like Khalayi maintain faith-based strategies refusing ritual practices.
44 Articles
44 Articles
In African politics, rampant belief in witchcraft fortifies some, vexes others
In Kenya, some of the anti-government protesters who gathered last month in the capital, Nairobi, said the disorientation they felt while nearing the presidential residence was likely an evil spell in favor of President William Ruto
Witchcraft and politics: Uganda’s election season sparks supernatural surge
As Uganda heads into its election season, some candidates are turning to unconventional methods to gain an edge. In Eastern Uganda, Rosie Mukite, a witch doctor, says she has seen a noticeable increase in visits from political hopefuls seeking supernatural help.
Winnipeg Free Press
In African politics, the rampant belief in witchcraft fortifies some and vexes others
Breaking News, Sports, Manitoba, Canada
The Washington Post · Rodney Muhumuza Mbale, Uganda. At a funeral recently, Wilson Watira met a rival and offered his hand to shake. Instead of shaking his hand, the man pulled his hand away, folded a piece of paper, and showed it to Watira. That’s when he finally agreed to shake his hand. “He’s afraid of me because I’m not afraid of him, frankly,” says Watira, who is running for parliament in Uganda. He cites it as an example of the widespread…
Wilson Watira offered his hand when he met his political rival at a funeral, in a gesture to narrow the manna. The man did not want contact, and instead doubled a piece of paper that pointed towards Watira.
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