Incumbent President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has been officially declared a nominated candidate for the 2026 presidential elections, the Electoral Commission (EC) confirmed on Tuesday, 23rd September 2025, at its new headquarters in Lweza, Lubowa, Kampala.
Justice Simon Byabakama, the EC Chairperson confirmed that Museveni “had fulfilled all the requirements of the nomination as stipulated in the Presidential Elections Act,” making him the first presidential candidate formally in the race.
Speaking to the media after his nomination, Rtd Gen Museveni reflected on Uganda’s socio-economic transformation since he took office in 1986.
“In 1986, this area was just a coffee plantation owned by a British company. Today, it has turned into a modern estate. If you look at satellite images from then and now, you will see the progress we have made,” he said while drawing comparisons between the past and the present.
He highlighted infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic growth as key markers of the country’s transformation.
Museveni emphasized political and social continuity, highlighting development and transition as central priorities ahead of the 2026 polls.
“Point three in our principles is to prepare for transition, just like growth in infrastructure. Compare today’s growth and that of the 90s,” he stated.
Museveni outlined the government’s focus on youth empowerment, urging investment in four key sectors: commercial agriculture, manufacturing, service industries including tourism and ICT, and public service.
He stressed the importance of creating a conducive environment for businesses and investors to support Uganda’s development journey.
On land issues, Museveni reassured citizens that lawful occupants are protected from eviction and called on voters to support National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidates to safeguard communities from land grabbing.
“Report such cases to me, and I will react,” the Rtd Gen said.
Regarding healthcare, the incumbent President, Museveni highlighted the establishment of Health Center Threes in all parishes, which he said improves access to services and reduces long-distance travel for patients.
He promised to elaborate further on health initiatives during his upcoming rally at Kololo.
On education, Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to expanding free education, ensuring that all children have access to learning opportunities, and encouraged arts teachers to return to classrooms to teach.
The Rtd General concluded by urging Ugandans to continue supporting the NRM, emphasizing that the country’s achievements over the past four decades provide a strong foundation for continued growth, stability, and national development.
Museveni’s nomination sets the stage for the 2026 presidential race, with the President highlighting Uganda’s four-decade journey of socio-economic progress as a foundation for continued development.
His emphasis on infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and national stability highlights a vision of continuity and growth, while calling on Ugandans to support the NRM in sustaining the country’s development progress.
