Kampala: Uganda's Electoral Commission has announced that the country's general election will be held on January 15, 2026. This election will determine the next president and members of parliament.
President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is seeking re-election. He has previously overseen constitutional amendments eliminating both age and term limits, allowing him to remain in office. His main challenger is expected to be Bobi Wine (Robert Kyagulanyi), a 43-year-old former pop star who has gained political prominence among youth voters. Wine has accused Museveni of rigging the 2021 election, while the ruling party maintains that Museveni won fairly.
Seven presidential candidates, including Wine and Museveni, are contesting the upcoming election. The Electoral Commission has assured the public of its commitment to a free and fair election process, though concerns about transparency and fairness persist.
The announcement of the election date comes amid ongoing political tensions and calls for electoral reforms. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with many urging the government to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates.
The upcoming election is seen as a critical moment for Uganda's democratic development and its future direction.