80-Year-Old Museveni to Seek Re-Election in Uganda’s 2026 Polls

Uganda’s long-serving president, Yoweri Museveni, has officially declared his intention to run for re-election in the upcoming 2026 general elections, extending his presidency beyond four decades. The 80-year-old leader, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, will be contesting under the banner of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

The announcement was made by the NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, Tanga Odoi, who disclosed that Museveni would pick up nomination forms on June 28 to vie for both party chairperson and presidential flag bearer ahead of the January 2026 elections.

Museveni’s bid comes amid criticism from opposition leaders and human rights activists who have long accused his government of stifling dissent and manipulating democratic processes. Two major constitutional amendments in 2005 – to remove term limits and in 2017 – to scrap the 75-year age limit have allowed Museveni to extend his stay in office.

With this declaration, Museveni positions himself for a potential seventh term in office, making him one of the longest-ruling leaders on the African continent, behind counterparts in Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, and Congo.

Opposition leader and musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine is expected to challenge Museveni once again after losing the 2021 election a contest that was marred by allegations of voter suppression, arbitrary arrests, and internet shutdowns.

Political observers say the 2026 race is likely to be tense, as the Museveni administration faces increased scrutiny from both domestic and international actors concerned about Uganda’s democratic trajectory.

Despite the criticisms, Museveni remains a dominant force in Ugandan politics, with solid backing from the military, ruling party structures, and large rural constituencies who credit him for maintaining national stability.