The Electoral Commission of Uganda has released a provisional list of individuals who have expressed interest in contesting for the presidency in the upcoming 2026 general elections. Among the notable names is the incumbent president Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who has officially confirmed his intention to seek re-election. Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, will once again face off with key opposition figures.
Also on the list is opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who will be representing the National Unity Platform (NUP). Bobi Wine has continued to position himself as the face of the opposition despite heavy state resistance and alleged suppression of his political activities.
Former army commander Gen. Mugisha Muntu is also in the race, representing the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT). Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has made his presidential ambitions public and is reportedly preparing to run under a new political formation, the People's Front for Freedom (PFF), a party believed to have strong ties with detained opposition veteran Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Other aspirants include Patrick Oboi Amuriat, Mandela Mafabi, David Magezi, and Kampala Central MP Muhammad Nsereko.
The release of this list has heightened political pressure across the country as new parties and alliances emerge, signaling what could be one of the most competitive elections in Uganda’s recent history. The participation of figures like Lukwago through new platforms such as the PFF is especially significant, given that its founding member, Dr. Besigye, remains behind bars, further igniting conversations about opposition unity and strategy
.
While the names continue to spark public interest and debate, several critical questions remain unanswered. The political future of Mathias Mpuuga, the Nyendo–Mukungwe MP, remains unclear. Once Deputy President of the NUP and a key opposition figure, Mpuuga has since taken a quieter route politically, leading many to wonder whether he will defend his parliamentary seat or take a different path.
Another lingering question surrounds General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the first son and a senior military officer. Although not listed among the confirmed presidential aspirants, speculation remains high about his intentions. Analysts believe Muhoozi could be positioning himself to control the largest number of MPs in Parliament with a possible aim of becoming Leader of the Opposition, especially if the current regime faces a shift in balance.
The political scene is heating up as Uganda inches closer to the 2026 elections. With official nominations scheduled for October and the general election expected in January, political parties and aspirants are expected to intensify mobilization and campaigns. Whether the opposition will remain divided or find common ground remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Uganda is gearing up for a highly competitive and defining electoral season.
