Pesident Museveni has officially declared his intent to extend his decades-long leadership, picking nomination forms to run for both National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Chairman and party Presidential flag bearer for the 2026 general elections.
While the move reinforces Museveni’s grip on the ruling party he has led since its inception, this year’s bid pivots on a new tone with a strong emphasis on transforming Uganda’s economy through science-driven value addition and a renewed war on corruption.
“I have decided to take up the mantle to lead again, not because I am short of work, but because the support I received across the country showed me that the struggle is not yet over,” Museveni told supporters at the NRM headquarters in Kampala, accompanied by First Lady Janet Museveni.
Unlike in previous declarations where security and stability took center stage, Museveni placed economic modernization and anti-corruption as focal points of his next term agenda.
“We are now on the right trajectory. The country is embracing the knowledge economy — we are making vehicles, vaccines, computers. But now, I want us to focus more on value addition,” he said, pointing to Uganda’s untapped potential in processing coffee, sugar, and other products for export.
He further pledged to root out corruption to maximize government resources. “We must eliminate corruption to get the best out of the money we have to develop our country,” Museveni asserted, acknowledging growing concerns over accountability in government.
The NRM leader also cautioned against identity politics and called for a return to ideological discipline. “Let us focus on issues, not personalities,” he said, encouraging party leaders to prioritize national interest and African unity over narrow political gain.
The statement comes as the ruling party gears up for its internal elections. NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong said more than 20 million people are now registered members of the party.
“As we grow in numbers, cohesion is key,” he said, noting the significance of Museveni’s leadership continuity.
NRM Electoral Commission chairperson Dr. Tanga Odoi confirmed that Museveni would officially be nominated on July 5.
“We are grateful that the Chairman has respected the commission by personally picking the nomination forms,” Odoi said.
The event was attended by top party officials including Vice President Jessica Alupo, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Cabinet Ministers, and members of the NRM Central Executive Committee.
Museveni, 79, has led Uganda since 1986. If elected in 2026, he will extend his presidency beyond 40 years — one of the longest-serving leaders in Africa. His new campaign appears to seek legitimacy by refocusing on economic promise and tackling entrenched governance challenges.
