Uganda at a Crossroads 2026: Three Candidates Nominated on Day One of Presidential Race
By Kyeyune Ali
Lweza, Wakiso – The Electoral Commission on Monday officially nominated three candidates to contest in the 2026 presidential elections, marking the start of the two-day nomination exercise at the Commission’s headquarters in Lweza.
Among those cleared is President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the flag bearer of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who will be seeking another term in office. He was joined by Kasibante Robert, representing the National Peasant Party (NPP), and Elton Joseph Mabilizi, the flag bearer for the Conservative Party (CP).
Speaking shortly after his nomination, President Museveni thanked NRM members for what he described as renewed trust in his leadership. He pledged to accelerate Uganda’s economic growth and social transformation if re-elected.
“I want to thank the NRM members for again showing strong trust in me and electing me as the party chairperson. Uganda has already transitioned into a lower middle-income economy under my watch, and we shall continue building on this foundation,” Museveni said.
He highlighted what he called significant achievements in his administration, noting that the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) had grown from $34 billion to $66 billion in recent years. He attributed the expansion to investments in peace, infrastructure, telecommunications, electricity, and human capital development.
Meanwhile, Kasibante Robert of the NPP pledged to prioritize land reforms and address social inequalities.
“If Ugandans trust the National Peasant Party with leadership, our mission will be land reforms. Humanity must be protected in order to reduce inequalities,” Kasibante said.
On his part, Elton Joseph Mabilizi of the CP said his campaign would focus on conservative values and addressing Uganda’s economic challenges.
Electoral Commission Chairperson, Mr. Byamukama, confirmed that the first day of nominations had been concluded peacefully.
“Today’s nominations have been completed amicably, with no antagonism among the candidates. I can confirm that three candidates have successfully been nominated: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (NRM), Kasibante Robert (NPP), and Elton Joseph Mabilizi (CP). We pray that the process continues peacefully on the final day,” he said.
The nomination exercise will continue on Tuesday, when two more candidates are expected to be cleared.