Witchcraft in African politics continues to shape election strategies, campaign fears, and power plays across the continent. From Uganda to South Sudan, politicians weave traditional beliefs into modern politics, driven by fear, spiritual protection, or cultural obligation.
Fear and Superstition in Uganda’s Campaign Arena
In Uganda, political hopeful Wilson Watira recalls a moment that reveals the enduring influence of witchcraft on political culture. At a funeral, when he extended his hand to an opponent, the man avoided physical contact and instead extended a folded program paper—symbolically avoiding direct spiritual contact.
This small act, according to Watira, stems from a deeper fear—that physical contact might transfer spiritual misfortune or advantage. Behind the campaign rallies, music trucks, and cash giveaways, candidates consult traditional healers, perform secret rituals, and rely on spiritual “insurance” to shield them from rivals.
Even within a deeply Christian society, syncretism thrives. Candidates like Watira say once your mind is consumed by fear of witchcraft, everything becomes suspicious. These beliefs can paralyze or embolden, depending on one’s spiritual convictions and alliances.
Spiritual Warfare in High-Level Politics
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has openly acknowledged the importance of traditional rituals. In a 2023 speech, he recounted jumping over a slaughtered chicken during the bush war that brought him to power. “It is very strong,” he said of traditional religion, urging Christian leaders to avoid attacking traditional beliefs outright.
Other Ugandan politicians are less open. Former Speaker of Parliament Rebecca Kadaga, in 2016, faced criticism after visiting a clan shrine to “report her political success” to ancestral spirits. Many politicians still secretly consult healers to secure spiritual protection before elections.
Traditional healer Rose Mukite, based in Mbale, says politicians frequently seek her services. Her shrine forces clients to crawl in—a sign of humility before the spirits. She uses cowrie shells, tree bark, and smoke rituals, claiming she prevents political downfalls and even jail time.
Continental Cases: Kenya, Zambia, and South Sudan
The influence of witchcraft in African politics spans the continent. In Kenya, anti-government protestors said they felt disoriented near State House—blaming the sensation on a spell cast in favor of President William Ruto. Critics point to a church Ruto built inside the compound, calling it a shrine rather than a place of worship.
In Zambia, two men stand trial for allegedly using charms to harm President Hakainde Hichilema. Ironically, Hichilema himself faced witchcraft accusations from his predecessor Michael Sata. Meanwhile, in South Sudan, Vice President Riek Machar’s followers believe he fulfills a century-old prophecy of a left-handed, gap-toothed man destined to unite the nation. Some say this belief continues to drive his political ambition despite years of civil unrest.
Modern Candidates Caught Between Cultures
Candidates like Peace Khalayi, running for Parliament in Uganda’s eastern region, face pressure to visit healers but resist the practice. Though she campaigns among Muslims and Christians, some supporters urge her to perform rituals—sometimes involving livestock sacrifices. She pretends to agree but never shows up. Still, she admits, “The fear is there. That’s no lie.”
As Uganda nears its 2026 general election, campaign posters compete for space with notices offering magical solutions—from election victory to catching thieves and stopping spiritual attacks. Researcher Steven Masiga says candidates often budget money for witch doctors, seeing them as more dependable than voters.
Ultimately, witchcraft in African politics persists because belief itself has power. Whether candidates embrace or reject it, they cannot ignore it. Rituals may not win votes directly, but they offer a psychological edge and perceived protection. In African democracies marked by deep cultural memory, spiritual assurance remains an invisible but potent campaign tool.
For more insights and related reports, read the original AP story on how fear of witchcraft shapes politics in Uganda.
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