Stephen Elwangu, a 28-year-old from Soroti, has launched a youth-led presidential bid for Uganda’s 2026 elections, unveiling the People’s Leadership Platform to challenge elitist politics and advocate for inclusive national reform.

In a bold move ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections, 28-year-old Stephen Elwangu, a native of Soroti District, has officially declared his intention to contest for the presidency. Elwangu, a passionate youth advocate and political newcomer, has launched the People’s Leadership Platform (PLP), a political movement aimed at championing youth-led, inclusive governance in a country long dominated by older political elites.

Presenting himself as a “redeemer of this generation,” Elwangu did not mince words in his critique of Uganda’s current leadership, which he described as elitist and disconnected from the everyday realities of ordinary citizens. He called for sweeping reforms centred on industrialisation, youth employment, healthcare decentralisation, and transformative education policies.

“Our leadership has become an exclusive club—out of reach, out of touch, and out of ideas,” Elwangu said during the launch of his campaign in Soroti. “The People’s Leadership Platform is not just another political party. It is a movement for the common person—young, hopeful, and determined to reclaim their rightful stake in the future of this nation.”

Drawing inspiration from his Christian faith and a deep sense of national purpose, Elwangu’s message struck a defiant tone as he encouraged young Ugandans to break free from traditional age-based limitations in politics. He called for a generational shift, urging the youth to embrace leadership roles and reimagine the nation’s trajectory through innovation, integrity, and unity.

“The future of Uganda belongs to those who are bold enough to build it,” he declared. “We cannot wait another decade. The time is now. Let us rise, lead, and make Uganda great again.”

Running under the slogan “Let’s Make Uganda Great Again”, Elwangu’s campaign promises to mobilise the country’s vast youthful population—many of whom remain marginalised in national decision-making. His platform pledges to invest in agro-industrial zones, expand access to vocational training, create youth-focused employment programmes, and bring essential healthcare services closer to rural communities.

While Elwangu faces a formidable political landscape—dominated for nearly four decades by President Yoweri Museveni—his entry into the race signals growing momentum for a new generation of leaders determined to rewrite Uganda’s political narrative.

With months to go before official nominations and campaigning kick into full gear, Stephen Elwangu’s announcement is already stirring conversations across the country, particularly among youth eager for change and a leadership that reflects their realities.

Whether he can translate grassroots enthusiasm into national support remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Uganda’s 2026 elections have taken on a new and youthful dimension.