Keypoints:
- Museveni confirms 2026 re-election bid
- Cites national interest and NRM values
- Eyes $500bn GDP in next five years
UGANDAN President Yoweri Museveni has confirmed he will run for a seventh term in the country’s upcoming January 2026 general election, saying his decision is driven by a desire to protect Uganda’s national interest.
Museveni, 80, made the announcement via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that his continued leadership is aligned with the goals of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), which has been in power since 1986.
‘I’m motivated by the need to safeguard the national interest,’ he said, reaffirming his vision of political continuity and economic growth.
Economic ambition tops re-election message
Museveni also outlined an ambitious economic target: growing Uganda’s GDP to $500bn within five years. He said this would be the next stage in what he called five key development phases Uganda has undergone since the NRM took power nearly four decades ago.
The long-time leader said the NRM’s ideology remains central to Uganda’s future, and he urged newly elected district chairpersons to uphold party values and remain impartial in their roles.
‘Avoid electing people driven by personal agendas,’ he warned. ‘Back those who truly understand the NRM’s ideology and are committed to national service.’
Museveni’s rise and legacy
President Museveni came to power in 1986 after leading a five-year guerrilla war against the regime of President Apollo Milton Obote, whom he accused of rigging the 1980 election. Before Obote, Uganda endured a brutal dictatorship under Idi Amin from 1971 to 1979.
Since taking office, Museveni has overseen periods of economic progress, but also attracted criticism for extending his rule by removing constitutional term and age limits that previously would have barred him from standing again.
Now among the world’s longest-serving leaders, Museveni is often credited by supporters for stabilising the country, though critics cite declining democratic freedoms and growing youth dissatisfaction.
2026 election seen as key political test
The confirmation of Museveni’s candidacy sets the stage for a potentially heated contest. Uganda’s 2026 general election is expected to test the country’s political maturity and democratic institutions.
With younger generations increasingly vocal about the need for leadership change and accountability, the coming months will likely see intensified debate over Uganda’s future direction.
Museveni’s message, however, remains clear: continuity, ideological loyalty, and national development. As the 2026 campaign trail begins, all eyes will be on how the NRM positions itself — and whether voters believe that the man who has led Uganda for 39 years is still the one to protect its future.
