Uganda’s Electoral Commission announced Tuesday that the country will hold its next general election on January 15, marking the start of another critical political season. The announcement sets the stage for a showdown between President Yoweri Museveni and opposition leader Bobi Wine.
Museveni, 80, who has led Uganda since 1986, aims to extend his presidency toward nearly 50 years. His administration has amended the constitution twice, first eliminating term limits and later removing the age ceiling for presidents, allowing him to continue his tenure.
The main opposition contender is Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, a 43-year-old former musician whose popularity among young voters remains strong. Wine accuses Museveni of securing past victories through “ballot-stuffing, voter intimidation, bribery, and other irregularities.”
The ruling party refutes these claims, asserting that Museveni’s wins reflect genuine public support.
In addition to the two frontrunners, six other candidates from smaller political parties are in the race for the presidency. Citizens will also vote for new members of parliament nationwide.
Museveni’s supporters highlight his role in stabilising the country, boosting economic growth, and leading campaigns against HIV/AIDS. Critics, meanwhile, charge the government with suppressing political opposition, human rights violations, and corruption.
Authorities maintain that due process is followed for anyone detained and that allegations of abuse are unfounded.
Economic expectations are high as Uganda anticipates its first crude oil exports next year, led by projects from France’s TotalEnergies and China’s CNOOC, which the government hopes will accelerate growth.
Regionally, Uganda continues to be a key player, with troops involved in missions across Somalia, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Equatorial Guinea, focusing on peacekeeping and counter-insurgency operations.
With the election approaching, attention is turning to how voters and officials will navigate the political contest, balancing decades of leadership with calls for change from a younger generation.
