Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni is set to seek reelection for another term in the country’s general election, scheduled for early next year.
The 80-year-old leader, who has been in power since 1986, will extend his nearly four-decade rule if successful.
A senior official from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party confirmed Museveni’s intention to run, stating that he will pick up forms to represent the party in the polls.
Museveni’s decision to seek reelection has sparked reactions from various quarters.
His closest opponent is expected to be pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who came second in the last election and has already confirmed his intention to run.
Wine has been a vocal critic of Museveni’s government and has accused the president of using patronage and security forces to maintain his grip on power.
The upcoming election is expected to be closely contested, with Museveni’s opponents likely to challenge his long-standing rule.
Despite his advanced age, Museveni remains a dominant figure in Ugandan politics, and his decision to seek reelection is seen as a bid to maintain stability and continuity in the country.
However, critics argue that Museveni’s prolonged rule has stifled democratic progress and limited opportunities for new leaders to emerge.
The election will be closely watched by both local and international observers, who will be keen to see whether Uganda’s electoral process is free, fair, and transparent.