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Uganda’s Election Date Set for January 15 2026

The Uganda Electoral Commission has announced that the country’s next general elections will be held on January 15, 2026. This date covers both the presidential race and parliamentary elections.
Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni—who has held power since 1986—will seek another term, potentially extending his rule toward the half‑century mark. Museveni’s government has previously removed constitutional age and term‑limits to enable such continued bids.
His expected chief challenger is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (popularly known as Bobi Wine), a former pop‑star turned politician, who has strong youth backing and has alleged widespread electoral manipulation in previous contests.
The January date comes amid broader concerns about democratic space, electoral justice and human‑rights in the lead‑up to the poll. Critics point to the longstanding dominance of Museveni’s National Resistance Movement (NRM) party and question whether the political field is genuinely level. At the same time, the government emphasises continuity, stability and its record of national peace.

Why It Matters

This election is critical: it will test whether Uganda can hold genuinely competitive contests under one of Africa’s longest‑serving leaders.

It will shape Uganda’s domestic direction—especially with the country poised to commence crude‑oil production, and with major infrastructure and economic shifts underway.

For the youth and opposition, the contest offers a major platform—and they are mobilising strongly.

For regional observers, Uganda’s stability and political trajectory matter: Kampala is a key player in East African geopolitics and peacekeeping.

The Urban Gazette shall track candidacy filings, campaign‑trail developments, voter‑education initiatives, media freedom, internet access and election‑monitoring.

Follow regional‑specific dynamics: how will northern regions (West Nile, Karamoja) vote? Are there major internal power shifts inside NRM or opposition coalitions?

Monitor whether any late changes to the system (e.g., electoral laws, candidate eligibility) arise ahead of the vote.

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