Both Opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential flag bearer Nathan Nandala Mafabi and National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential flag bearer Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, are scheduled for nomination today.
Their nomination follows that of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Yoweri Kaguta Museveni; Elton Joseph Mabirizi, President of the Conservative Party (CP); and Robert Kasibante of the National Peasants Party (NPP).
According to the Electoral Commission, aspiring presidential candidates must submit at least 100 verified supporters’ signatures from each of at least 98 districts across the country.
Initially, the Commission confirmed that it had verified signatures from only 80 districts submitted by the NUP leader, leaving 18 districts unaccounted for—an issue that could have disqualified Bobi Wine from the nomination process unless additional valid signatures were submitted. However, he was cleared and thus joins Museveni, Mafabi, Mabirizi, and Kasibante.
According to the nomination guidelines, a presidential aspirant must be a Ugandan citizen by birth, at least 18 years of age, registered on the national voters’ register, and must submit certified copies of academic qualifications verifying attainment of at least an Advanced Level (A’Level) certificate or its equivalent. Additionally, proof of payment of the Shs 20 million nomination fee is required.
Bobi Wine is widely regarded as Museveni’s strongest challenger, setting the stage for a high-stakes political rematch. So far, over 160 individuals have picked up presidential nomination forms, and several parties, including the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), have signaled their intent to field candidates, indicating a highly competitive race in the 2026 general election.
Observers believe a rematch between Museveni and Bobi Wine will dominate Uganda’s political discourse, reigniting debates on leadership, democracy, and the country’s future.
In the last presidential election held on January 14, 2021, 11 candidates contested the presidency. Out of 18,103,603 registered voters, 10,350,819 cast their ballots, marking a voter turnout of 57.2%. President Museveni won with 6,042,898 votes (58.38%), while Bobi Wine secured second place with 3,631,437 votes (35.08%).
That result extended Museveni’s rule past four decades, cementing his status as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
