Uganda’s electoral commission has set a January 2026 date for the country’s next general election, during which President Yoweri Museveni will seek to extend his nearly 40-year rule. The 80-year-old leader, who has twice amended the constitution to stay in power since 1986, faces his familiar challenger—pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine, popular among Uganda’s youth. This rematch from the 2021 election is already charged, with Wine’s camp alleging past electoral misconduct, which the ruling party denies. Six other candidates are also in the race. Museveni’s supporters credit him with stabilizing Uganda and driving economic growth, but critics decry widespread corruption and repression. The election, which is taking place against a backdrop of economic ambitions, including new oil exports and a significant regional security role, could shape East Africa’s economic and political trajectory.
Reuters
