Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has officially declared his intention to seek a seventh term in the country’s 2026 general election, setting the stage for what could be one of the most defining political contests in Uganda’s recent history.
Now 80, Museveni made the announcement through a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), saying his decision to remain in the race is rooted in a commitment to protect Uganda’s “national interest.” For a leader who has been in power since 1986, the message was clear: continuity, stability, and long-term vision still matter.
“I’m motivated by the need to safeguard the national interest,” Museveni wrote. “Our journey is far from over.”
Eyes on Economic Transformation
Alongside the political declaration, Museveni revealed a bold economic target: growing Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to $500 billion in just five years. He outlined this as the next step in Uganda’s long-term development roadmap — one that has evolved over what he described as five key “phases” of transformation under his leadership.
While critics often point to economic inequality and youth unemployment, Museveni’s supporters argue that Uganda has seen relative macroeconomic stability and regional leadership under his tenure. Now, he says, it’s time to consolidate those gains.
Museveni also called on local leaders within his ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to remain committed to party values and national service.
“Avoid electing people driven by personal agendas,” he cautioned. “Back those who understand the NRM ideology.”
A Legacy Built on War and Reform
Museveni first took office in 1986 after leading a guerrilla war against the government of then-President Milton Obote. That came after years of political chaos and dictatorship under Idi Amin, whose regime left a legacy of fear and instability.
Since then, Museveni has been both praised and criticized. Supporters see him as a stabilizing figure who helped rebuild a fractured nation. But detractors point to shrinking democratic space, the removal of constitutional term and age limits, and a growing sense of political fatigue—especially among Uganda’s youth, many of whom have known no other president.
2026: A Tipping Point?
Museveni’s decision to seek re-election once again brings into focus the state of Uganda’s democracy. With the 2026 general election just months away, many citizens—especially younger voters—are asking whether nearly four decades of the same leadership is sustainable.
Opposition voices are expected to grow louder in the coming months, calling for electoral reforms, youth inclusion, and transparent governance. Yet Museveni remains confident that his experience, ideology, and record of “progress” give him an edge.
As the campaign season approaches, one thing is clear: the road to 2026 will be as much about Uganda’s past as it is about its future. Whether voters opt for continuity or change, the stakes could not be higher.
