Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has officially endorsed President Yoweri Museveni as its candidate for the 2026 general election, setting the stage for what could be his seventh term in office.
The 80-year-old leader accepted the nomination at the party’s delegates’ conference in Kampala, thanking members for their continued trust. Museveni, who first took power in 1986 after leading a rebel force, has since removed term limits and age restrictions from the constitution, allowing him to extend his stay in power.
If re-elected, Museveni would edge closer to five decades at the helm of the East African nation. During his speech, he highlighted the NRM’s achievements over the years, crediting the party with economic recovery and stability.
However, critics argue that Museveni’s long rule has eroded democracy and left little room for genuine opposition. Despite the criticism, he remains popular in rural areas where many credit him with bringing peace and security.
Opposition Challenges
Museveni’s main challenger is expected to be Bobi Wine, the 43-year-old musician-turned-politician who ran against him in 2021. Wine lost that election amid accusations of vote rigging and widespread violence.
Wine has already confirmed he will run again in 2026, framing the contest as a protest against what he calls “everything wrong with the government.” But his political activities continue to face heavy restrictions, with rallies often blocked by security forces.
Another long-time rival, Kizza Besigye, remains in jail facing treason charges, which his supporters say are politically motivated.
As Uganda heads into another tense election season, the stage is set for a familiar contest: Museveni relying on his party machine and rural support, and opposition leaders fighting to mobilize under tight state control.