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President Museveni, now 81 years old, has been in power since 1986 and is seeking yet another term — his seventh election victory. If he wins, he will extend his rule well into a fifth decade.
Challenging him is Bobi Wine, 43, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi. He has built strong support among young people, especially in cities, by speaking out against corruption, unemployment, and police brutality.
A Campaign Under Pressure
The campaign period has been tense. Opposition rallies have been disrupted, activists arrested, and critics intimidated. Human rights groups say security forces have targeted opposition supporters, while the government insists it is maintaining law and order.
Uganda has a very young population — most citizens are under 30 — but jobs are scarce. Youth unemployment has become one of the biggest issues in the election, alongside rising frustration over corruption and poor public services.
The Two Main Contenders
Yoweri Museveni (NRM)
Museveni came to power after leading a rebel army that promised democracy following years of dictatorship and civil war. Over time, however, critics say he has tightened his grip on power.
Changes to the constitution removed age and term limits, allowing him to keep running. Museveni says he is the only leader who can guarantee stability, security, and economic growth.
Bobi Wine (NUP)
Once a chart-topping musician, Bobi Wine entered politics as a voice for the poor and the youth. Nicknamed the “ghetto president,” he rose quickly and shocked the country in the last election by finishing second.
His party is now the largest opposition group in parliament. However, Wine says he continues to face harassment, arrests, and violence from security forces.
Other Candidates and Key Absences
There are eight presidential candidates, all men. Several opposition figures are running, but veteran politician Kizza Besigye is not among them. He remains in jail on treason charges, which he denies.
What Voters Care About Most
The economy tops the list of concerns. While Uganda has avoided sharp price increases seen elsewhere, many people say daily life remains difficult.
Other major worries include:
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Unemployment
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Corruption
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Poor roads and infrastructure
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Limited access to good healthcare and education
Uganda ranks low on global corruption indexes, with bribery and favoritism widely reported.
Will the Election Be Fair?
Past elections in Uganda have been heavily criticised. Although officials promise a fair vote, the UN and rights groups warn of a climate of fear.
Opposition events have often been blocked, and there are fears of an internet shutdown on election day — something that has happened before. Bobi Wine’s party says it has developed technology to monitor results even if the internet is cut.
Election Day Details
Voting will take place on Thursday, 15 January. Polling stations open at 7:00am and close at 4:00pm. Anyone still in line at closing time will be allowed to vote.
Ugandans will vote for:
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President
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353 constituency Members of Parliament
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146 women MPs, one from each district
As election day approaches, the big question remains: Will Uganda choose continuity — or take a chance on change?
