By Michelle Ndaga
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was on Tuesday formally nominated to contest for a seventh term in Uganda’s 2026 presidential election, extending his bid to lead the country beyond four decades.
Museveni, who has ruled since 1986, arrived at the Electoral Commission nomination grounds in Lubowa accompanied by First Lady Janet Museveni, Speaker Anita Among, senior National Resistance Movement (NRM) officials, and other government dignitaries.
After scrutiny of his nomination papers, the Electoral Commission confirmed that he had met all requirements under the Presidential Elections Act and cleared him to run under the NRM ticket.
In his acceptance speech, Museveni vowed to focus on safeguarding Uganda’s economic and social gains while tackling corruption, crime, and impunity.
He highlighted achievements in infrastructure development, poverty reduction, and economic growth, noting that Uganda’s GDP has significantly expanded under his administration.
The nomination comes amid mounting political tension, with opposition leaders, including Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), alleging unfair disqualification of some of their endorsements by the Electoral Commission.
The NRM has already signaled the start of its campaign machinery, urging supporters to rally behind Museveni to “preserve peace, stability, and prosperity.” The presidential elections are scheduled for early 2026.
