Museveni Eyes Seventh Term: Uganda’s Longtime Leader Confirms 2026 Election Bid

KAMPALA, UGANDA

President Yoweri Museveni, one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, has officially confirmed that he will run for a seventh term in office in Uganda’s 2026 presidential election, signaling his intent to extend a rule that began nearly four decades ago.

The 79-year-old president’s bid was confirmed this week by senior members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), following months of speculation. The party’s Secretary General, Richard Todwong, told reporters that Museveni remains the party’s sole and most capable candidate, citing his experience, leadership, and regional influence.

“President Museveni is still strong, visionary, and capable of steering the country forward,” Todwong said at a press briefing in Kampala.

Museveni first came to power in 1986, after leading a military rebellion that ousted then-leader Tito Okello. Since then, he has maintained a firm grip on power, winning every election — often amid allegations of voter intimidation, suppression of dissent, and electoral manipulation, all of which his government denies.

In recent years, the president has removed constitutional age and term limits, enabling him to seek re-election indefinitely. Critics say his continued rule threatens democracy in Uganda, stifles opposition voices, and limits opportunities for leadership transition.

Prominent opposition figure Bobi Wine, who ran against Museveni in the 2021 election, condemned the move, calling it “an insult to Ugandans who want change.”

“Uganda is not a monarchy. This is a republic. Our people deserve fresh leadership,” Wine posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Museveni, however, insists his leadership has brought stability and development to Uganda, pointing to improved infrastructure, economic growth, and regional security efforts as key accomplishments.

As the 2026 elections draw closer, Uganda braces for what could be another fiercely contested race — with the same dominant figure at the center once again.