Uganda's Museveni Seeks to Extend His 40-Year Rule in Upcoming Election

Sun Oct 19 2025 07:31:00 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, aged 80, confirms his candidacy for the next presidential election, aiming to extend his nearly four-decade tenure amid rising challenges from opposition figures.

In his latest address at a National Resistance Movement (NRM) conference, President Yoweri Museveni announced his intention to run for re-election, positioning himself to potentially extend his nearly 40-year rule in Uganda. Museveni, who has served as Uganda’s leader since 1986, emphasized his commitment to transforming the nation into a "high middle income country" if re-elected. Critics accuse him of authoritarian governance, having altered the constitution twice to remove age and term limits to maintain his grip on power.

The upcoming election, scheduled for January 2024, is expected to see Museveni face significant opposition, most notably from pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who has openly declared his candidacy. Wine previously contested against Museveni in 2021, losing amid accusations of electoral fraud and state-sanctioned repression against opposition members. Another key figure, Kizza Besigye, remains in detention facing treason charges—a move many view as politically motivated.

In his speech, Museveni underscored the importance of seizing economic opportunities, urging Ugandans not to miss the chance for transformation comparable to successful nations in Asia. As the political climate intensifies, the implications for Uganda's governance and democratic process are under scrutiny as Museveni seeks another term in office.