Ugandan leader Yoweri Museveni, 80, to seek reelection

 

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, has confirmed that he will seek re-election in the country’s upcoming presidential election scheduled for January 2026. The 80-year-old leader made the announcement via a post on the X platform, stating his intention to run as the presidential flag bearer for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.

Museveni came to power nearly four decades ago following a guerrilla war and has since become one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. His administration has altered the Ugandan constitution twice to eliminate age and term limits, enabling him to run for office repeatedly. Critics and human rights activists have accused Museveni of relying on the military and patronage networks to suppress opposition and maintain control. However, Museveni denies any misuse of power.

He says his main goal in seeking another term is to further Uganda’s economic development. Specifically, he has set an ambitious target to raise Uganda’s economy to $500 billion over the next five years. As of now, the country's GDP is about $66 billion, according to the Ministry of Finance.

If successful in the 2026 election, Museveni’s total time in power would extend to nearly 45 years. The announcement comes amid ongoing concerns about democracy and political freedom in Uganda, with many wondering whether the election will be free and fair.

The NRM remains dominant in Uganda’s political landscape, but signs of growing opposition are emerging. With the election less than a year away, Museveni’s long rule and future plans are once again in the spotlight, both at home and abroad.

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As Uganda heads toward its next presidential election in January 2026, attention is turning to opposition leader Bobi Wine, the most prominent challenger to longtime President Yoweri Museveni. Born Robert Kyagulanyi, Bobi Wine is a pop star turned politician who ran against Museveni in the 2021 election and came in second. He has already declared that he will run again.

Bobi Wine rejected the results of the 2021 election, claiming that it was rigged through vote tampering, intimidation by security forces, and other forms of electoral malpractice. Independent observers and human rights groups also raised concerns about the fairness of the 2021 vote, citing violence and suppression of dissent. Despite the allegations, Museveni was declared the winner and continued his presidency.

Wine has remained vocal in criticizing the Museveni administration, accusing it of authoritarianism and failing to deliver on promises of economic opportunity and political reform. His platform mainly appeals to Uganda’s large youth population, who are increasingly disillusioned with the status quo. Over 75 percent of Ugandans are under 30, and many see Bobi Wine as a symbol of change.

The upcoming election is expected to be tense, with international observers watching closely. While Museveni commands strong control over state institutions, including the military and police, the growing dissatisfaction among the public could present challenges.

Wine’s continued commitment to running, despite risks to his safety and freedom, has made him a powerful figure in Ugandan politics. The opposition's success, however, may depend not just on popularity but also on whether electoral reforms are introduced to ensure a transparent process.

As January 2026 approaches, the stage is set for what could be a defining moment in Uganda’s political future, with both continuity and change on the ballot.