Uganda Sets 15 January for General Elections

Uganda has scheduled its general elections for 15 January 2026, with long-serving President Yoweri Museveni seeking another term against pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine and six other candidates amid concerns over political suppression and electoral transparency.

Uganda’s Electoral Commission has officially announced that the country’s general elections will be held on 15 January 2026, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest in one of Africa’s most enduring political landscapes. President Yoweri Museveni, aged 81, who has been in power since 1986, is seeking another term in office. He is Africa’s fourth longest-serving leader and has previously removed presidential age and term limits through constitutional amendments, allowing him to extend his tenure.

Museveni’s long rule has been credited with stabilising Uganda after decades of conflict, boosting economic growth, and spearheading the fight against HIV/AIDS. However, his government faces sustained criticism over allegations of human rights abuses, political suppression, and endemic corruption, raising concerns over the fairness and transparency of the upcoming polls.

The main challenger in the presidential race is Bobi Wine, a pop star-turned-politician whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi. Wine, who previously contested the 2021 elections, has sought to mobilise Uganda’s youth, alleging that the last election was marred by widespread ballot manipulation, voter intimidation, and bribery. He remains a focal point for opposition supporters who are demanding more democratic reforms.

In addition to Museveni and Wine, six other candidates will contest the presidency, signalling a crowded and competitive race. Ugandans will also vote for members of parliament, making the elections a comprehensive test of the nation’s political landscape.

Observers have noted that the 2026 elections will not only determine the country’s leadership but will also serve as a barometer for Uganda’s broader democratic development. Analysts warn that while Museveni’s entrenched political machinery remains strong, rising discontent among young voters could play a decisive role in shaping the outcome.

With only months to go before polling day, both the ruling party and the opposition are intensifying campaigns across the country. Security and electoral observers will be closely monitoring the elections to ensure that voting is conducted transparently, amid ongoing concerns about political tensions and potential unrest.

“Decades in power test the patience of a nation, but not its hope for change,” political commentators note, highlighting the high stakes of Uganda’s upcoming vote.