KAMPALA – Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, aged 80, has expressed strong confidence in securing victory in the upcoming presidential election, which is scheduled for January 2026. His declaration sets the stage for a potential extension of his nearly four-decade rule, having led the East African nation since 1986.
President Museveni’s assertion comes as he confirmed his intention to seek re-election, a move that has been widely anticipated. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, which he leads, has already confirmed his intention to pick up nomination forms for both the party chairmanship and presidential flag-bearer positions.
Museveni’s long tenure has seen him become one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. His administration has overseen significant economic reforms and infrastructure development, which he often highlights as reasons for his continued leadership. He has also pledged to grow Uganda’s economy to $500 billion within the next five years if re-elected.
However, his extended stay in power has drawn criticism from opposition parties and human rights groups, who accuse his government of suppressing dissent and democratic space. The constitution has been amended twice under his rule, removing presidential term and age limits, which critics argue paved the way for his continued candidacy.
The upcoming election is expected to see a challenge from prominent opposition figures, including pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who was the main challenger in the 2021 elections and has also declared his intention to run again. The political climate in Uganda is likely to intensify as the election draws closer.
