Uganda’s Electoral Commission on Tuesday cleared President Yoweri Museveni to seek reelection in polls scheduled for early next year, a move that could extend his rule in the East African nation to nearly half a century.
The 81-year-old leader, who seized power in 1986, has already amended the constitution twice to remove presidential age and term limits, allowing him to remain in office. Museveni, Africa’s fourth longest-serving leader, is credited with stabilising Uganda, fostering economic growth and combating HIV/AIDS, but faces criticism for suppressing political opponents, rights abuses and corruption scandals.
The 2026 vote is expected to once again pit Museveni against his main challenger, opposition leader and pop star Bobi Wine, 43, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi. Wine lost to Museveni in 2021, alleging widespread fraud, ballot stuffing and intimidation by security forces. The Electoral Commission is expected to review Wine’s candidacy on Wednesday.
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At a press conference on Tuesday, Museveni said another term would allow him to focus on restoring public safety, improving transport infrastructure, and expanding health care and free education.
“There’s a bit of crime and impunity,” he said. “We will also work on getting rid of corruption.”
His government is banking on an economic boost when Uganda begins crude oil exports next year, with officials projecting double-digit growth.
Opponents, however, accuse Museveni of entrenching himself through military influence, state patronage, and repression. Rights groups have reported kidnappings, torture, and harassment of adversaries allegations Museveni denies.
The president’s critics also point to the growing role of his son, military chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who admitted in May to holding a missing opposition activist in his basement and threatened Bobi Wine.
