Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister Moses Ali caused alarm after he suddenly fainted during a public function, just days after securing re-election as Member of Parliament for Adjumani West.
In a video that has since gone viral, the 86-year-old veteran politician is seen being hurriedly removed from the scene by two security officers dressed in black suits.
The footage shows one officer gripping him by the arm and sweater while another supports his other side, as his body appears limp. His feet drag along the ground during the rushed evacuation, with his shoes slipping off in the process; a moment that has sparked widespread concern online.
Ali, a towering figure in Uganda’s political and military history, has served in government for decades. A former army general, he has remained a constant presence across multiple political eras, building a reputation as one of the country’s most enduring and influential leaders, particularly in his Adjumani West stronghold.
His latest election victory, under the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), extended his long grip on the constituency. He won the closely watched race with a comfortable margin, reaffirming his popularity among voters who continue to back his experience and deep-rooted connection to the region.
However, his age has increasingly been a topic of debate, with critics questioning his ability to keep up with the demands of public office. Supporters, on the other hand, have consistently defended him, citing his decades of service and leadership as proof of his capability.
The recent incident has now intensified that conversation, raising fresh concerns about his health and the pressures faced by elderly leaders in active politics. As images of the dramatic moment continue to circulate, many are left questioning how long one of Uganda’s longest-serving political figures can remain on the frontlines of leadership.