The Electoral Commission (EC) has today, 23rd September, 2025 officially nominated incumbent President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, as the first presidential candidate for Uganda’s 2026-2031 general elections.
Museveni arrived at the EC offices in Lubowa shortly before 10:00 a.m., and at exactly 10:15 a.m., EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama formally declared him a duly nominated candidate.
Justice Byabakama confirmed that the incumbent Museveni had met all the requirements under the Presidential Elections Act.
“We have checked and verified the aspirant’s documents and find them in order. He has fulfilled all the requirements for nomination under the Presidential Elections Act, and I hereby announce Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni of the NRM as a presidential candidate for the 2026-2031 elections,” he said.
During the nomination process, Justice Byabakama emphasized security measures and logistics for candidates.
He noted that processions to and from the EC offices would not be permitted, and each candidate would be assigned a security vehicle by the commission.
“The commission allows candidates to speak to the media at designated areas. Those wishing to address their supporters must coordinate with the authorities. Additionally, each presidential candidate will be provided with one security vehicle,” he added.
After being officially nominated, Museveni addressed the media at the EC nomination center in Lubowa, thanking the Electoral Commission and his supporters.
“I thank the EC for studying my documents and approving my candidature, it is a lot of work, and I am grateful. I also want to thank NRM members for trusting me to be the party’s flag bearer for 2026-2031,” he said.
According to the EC chairperson, as of 22nd September 2025, a total of 225 Ugandans had expressed interest in the presidential seat, with 41 submitting nomination documents. Only five aspirants have so far been approved, representing the NRM, FDC, National Unity Platform (NUP), Conservative Party (CP), and National Peasants Party.
The nomination exercise will continue until Wednesday, 24th September 2025. Other party candidates are yet to be nominated.
The nomination of Museveni marks the official start of the presidential race, with attention now turning to other aspirants who are expected to complete their nominations before the due date. As the process continues, the country watches closely, setting the stage for a closely contested 2026 election season.
