Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has officially declared his intention to run for re-election in the 2026 presidential polls, signaling a potential extension of his nearly 40-year rule.
In a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday night, the 80-year-old leader announced, “I have expressed my interest in running for the position of presidential flag bearer” under the banner of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Museveni first came to power in 1986 after leading a five-year guerrilla war and has since become one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. His administration has amended the constitution twice to remove presidential age and term limits, enabling him to extend his tenure.
While critics and human rights groups accuse Museveni of using the military, state security apparatus, and political patronage to suppress opposition and stay in power, he has consistently denied these allegations.
Justifying his re-election bid, Museveni said he aims to grow Uganda’s economy to $500 billion within the next five years — a significant leap from its current estimated GDP of $66 billion, according to the finance ministry.
Uganda’s next general elections are scheduled for January 2026, when citizens will also vote for members of parliament.
Museveni’s main challenger is expected to be opposition leader and musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi. Wine, who ran against Museveni in 2021, has already confirmed his intention to contest again.
He rejected the 2021 election results, citing widespread electoral malpractice, including ballot stuffing and intimidation by security forces.
