KAMPALA — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has formally been nominated as a candidate for Uganda’s 2026 presidential election, aiming for a historic seventh term in office. The 81-year-old incumbent arrived at the Electoral Commission’s Lubowa nomination grounds on Tuesday morning alongside First Lady and Education Minister Janet Kataaha Museveni, NRM leaders including Moses Kigongo, Speaker Anita Among, and other senior party officials.
Running under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) banner, Museveni framed his candidacy around stability, peace, and Uganda’s ongoing economic transformation.
Museveni’s Message: Peace, Progress, and Accountability
Speaking after his nomination, Museveni promised to:
- “Deepen efforts to safeguard and advance Uganda’s hard-won gains.”
- Maintain peace and stability, while addressing emerging security challenges such as crime and impunity.
- Recognize the Electoral Commission’s detailed work in reviewing his documents and approving his candidacy.
“There is peace in the country. There is no war; the army cannot allow that, but there is a bit of crime and impunity,” Museveni said, emphasizing law enforcement and party vigilance.
He also urged party members to remain vigilant, expose criminal elements, and hold those undermining the rule of law accountable.
A Long Tenure in Context
Museveni first took power in 1986 following a guerrilla war, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. His tenure has been marked by:
- Major infrastructure projects across Uganda
- Expansion of social services
- Economic reforms targeting middle-income status
NRM officials highlighted these achievements as the cornerstone of the party’s campaign, which kicks off immediately, with rallies emphasizing peace and development.
Opposition Challenges
Despite his long rule, critics argue Museveni’s extended stay in power has often come at the cost of political freedoms. Opposition figures have faced repeated clashes with authorities; for instance, Dr. Kizza Besigye remains imprisoned on treason charges.
Museveni now faces opposition leaders including Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), who is expected to be nominated on Wednesday. Analysts suggest the 2026 election could be one of Uganda’s most contested in decades, as the opposition mobilizes against a leader with nearly four decades in power.
Campaigns Kick Off
The main campaign event for Museveni is scheduled for Tuesday at Kololo ceremonial grounds, setting the stage for what promises to be a heated and historic race.
Observers note that while Museveni emphasizes experience, stability, and economic progress, the growing energy around opposition candidates signals a potentially transformative election in Uganda’s political landscape.
Bottom Line:
President Museveni formally enters Uganda’s 2026 race, seeking a 7th term while facing an energized opposition. The campaign promises high stakes, intense debates, and close scrutiny of Uganda’s long-serving leader.
