Uganda 2026 General Elections have sparked intense political activity, especially within opposition parties. As the polling period draws near, nomination exercises are gaining momentum and attracting both seasoned politicians and first-time aspirants.
Across the country, interest in elective positions continues to rise. From parliamentary seats to district leadership roles, many candidates are stepping forward. Some hope to retain their positions, while others seek to introduce fresh energy into their parties.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has seen a surge in nominations. With just five days left before its deadline, the process is accelerating. Aspirants are competing for roles such as Member of Parliament, district chairperson, mayor, and councillor. Notably, candidates like Betty Namboze, Hilary Kiyaga (Dr Hilderman), Ronald Evans Kanyike, and Joan Namutaawe have picked up nomination forms.
At the same time, new figures are emerging. Robert Maseruka, a former Makerere Guild President, is eyeing the Mukono North MP seat. Joyce Namuli Namatta plans to challenge incumbent Michael Kakembo for the Entebbe Municipality seat. Meanwhile, singer-turned-politician Muhammad Mayinja is targeting Bukoto South, a seat formerly held by Twaha Kagabo, who recently joined the NRM.
In a public address, David Lewis Rubongoya, NUP’s Secretary General, emphasized transparency in the nomination process. He reminded members that the party does not charge for nomination forms. Therefore, anyone who experiences manipulation should report it. According to him, such misconduct damages the party’s reputation and will be addressed firmly.
Robert Kyagulanyi, the party president, also shared important guidance. He encouraged aspirants to concentrate on grassroots engagement rather than relying on elite connections. In his view, actual community support will be the key criterion for nomination.
On the other hand, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has seen fewer contestants due to internal struggles. Many of its candidates ran unopposed during nominations. While this might suggest strongholds, it actually reveals fractures within the party.
For example, in Kalangala District, MP Moses Kabuusu announced he would not seek re-election on the FDC ticket. He attributed this decision to ongoing party conflicts and has since joined the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). Similarly, Robert Munaaba, former FDC chairperson in Kalangala, defected to NUP to contest for district chairperson.
Meanwhile, in Kasese District, only one FDC aspirant appeared for each Busongora constituency. William Musabe Nzoghu, a former MP, and Baguma Aloysious Kighema, a 2021 candidate, returned for another bid. Although they are unopposed for now, FDC’s declining internal participation remains a concern.
In a separate development, Godfrey Atkins Katusabe, MP for Bukonzo West, addressed rumors about his alleged defection. Contrary to online claims, he affirmed loyalty to FDC. Moreover, he intends to seek a formal apology from the Speaker of Parliament, who named him among defectors without verification. He stated that he had ignored multiple calls from the Speaker as a result of this issue.
In Gulu City, the competition is slowly heating up. Lawyer Geoffrey Komakec is preparing for a rematch against Fr Charles Onen, who defeated him in 2021. Wilson Oyat Chaga, FDC’s secretary general in the region, confirmed two more aspirants are expected to pick up forms soon. They will contest for the Gulu City Woman MP and Bardege-Layibi MP seats.
Looking ahead, the Electoral Commission has scheduled elections between January 12 and February 9, 2026. These include votes for the presidency, parliament, and local governments. Additionally, representatives for special interest groups—such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities—will also be elected during this period.
Despite internal party challenges, both NUP and FDC are pushing forward. NUP is building momentum through new recruits and veteran leaders alike. In contrast, FDC must address internal divisions if it hopes to remain relevant in the electoral race. Nonetheless, both parties recognize the importance of early preparation.
As election day approaches, Uganda’s political scene will likely become even more dynamic. The Uganda 2026 General Elections promise to be a pivotal moment in shaping the nation’s leadership. Therefore, voters, parties, and civil society all have a role in fostering a transparent and credible process.
For updates on the electoral roadmap, visit the Electoral Commission of Uganda.
