80-year-old Ugandan president in bid to extend 40-year rule

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has officially declared that he will run for another term in the 2026 elections, setting the stage for what could be his seventh time in office. Museveni, now 80, has been in power since 1986 and shows no signs of stepping aside. His party; the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has already endorsed his candidacy and cleared the political path for another shot at the presidency.

In his acceptance speech, Museveni laid out a bold vision: turning Uganda into a “high middle-income country” and pushing the economy toward a \$500 billion mark over the next five years. He framed his continued leadership as essential to maintaining stability and advancing national development a familiar message in his campaigns over the decades.

The 2026 vote is set for January 12, and once again, Museveni’s likely main challenger will be Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, better known as Bobi Wine; the musician-turned-politician who has become the face of Uganda’s opposition. Wine had announced plans to run again despite the risks. He previously faced arrests, threats, and harassment during his campaigns. For him, this election could be a pivotal moment and with the backing of Uganda’s overwhelmingly young population (over 80% are under 35), might tip the scales toward political change.
Adding to the political drama is Museveni’s son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba,who has stepped aside and thrown his support behind his father’s bid. His history of provocative statements and threats directed at Bobi Wine continue to stir unease.

Museveni’s long tenure has been under a lot of controversies. Previous elections, especially the 2021 vote, were heavily criticized by observers who cited widespread irregularities and repression. Many in the opposition along with international rights groups say the political playing field remains far from fair.

This new campaign comes at a time when Uganda is grappling with economic strain. From rising living costs, to youth unemployment; which has left a general sense of frustration with many Ugandans. Museveni is however, confident in his ability to win again, banking on his party’s well-oiled political machinery and his decades-long grip on the country’s political system.