The Electoral Commission of Uganda has officially concluded the Presidential Nominations for the 2025/2026 General Elections. The exercise took place on 23rd and 24th September 2025 at the Commission grounds in Lweza – Lubowa, Wakiso District, where candidates from different political parties were nominated to contest for the highest office in the country.
The two-day nomination exercise was presided over by Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and Returning Officer for Presidential Nominations. All candidates were nominated in accordance with the Presidential Elections Act, Cap 179, setting the stage for what is expected to be a competitive race ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
Day One: Museveni, Kasibante, and Mabirizi Lead the Way
The first day of nominations on 23rd September 2025 featured three candidates. These were President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (NRM), Kasibante Robert (NPP), and Mabirizi Joseph (CP). The nomination of the incumbent president drew large crowds of supporters from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who later gathered at Kololo Airstrip to celebrate his nomination.
During his speech at Kololo, President Museveni unveiled his new campaign theme, “Protecting the Gains.” He emphasized that his next term would focus on safeguarding the progress achieved during his leadership. Museveni promised to strengthen efforts against corruption, empower the youth through job creation, and expand the Parish Development Model (PDM), which he described as a key driver in improving household income and community development.
The President reminded Ugandans of his past performance, noting that in the 2021 General Election, he received 58.64% of the total vote. He expressed confidence that he would perform even better this time, citing continued peace, infrastructure development, and economic stability as the backbone of his administration’s success.
He further assured the public that his government would remain focused on service delivery and promoting prosperity for all citizens.
Day Two: Kyagulanyi, Mafabi, Muntu, Munyagwa, and Bulira Join the Race
The second day of nominations on 24th September 2025 brought more excitement as five additional candidates were nominated. These included Kyagulanyi Robert Ssentamu (NUP), Nandala Mafabi James Nathan (FDC), Mugisha Gregory Muntu Oyera (ANT), Munyagwa Mubarak Sserunga (CMP), and Bulira Frank Kabinga (RPP).
The nomination of Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, under the National Unity Platform (NUP), attracted massive attention and enthusiasm among his supporters. After his nomination, Kyagulanyi proceeded to Natete Grounds Kampala, where thousands of NUP supporters gathered to welcome him. In his speech, he introduced his campaign theme, “Protest Vote,” urging Ugandans to actively participate in the voting process and protect their votes until results are declared at every polling station.
Kyagulanyi promised to restore peace, unity, and equality in Uganda if elected president. He emphasized the need to fight corruption, create fair opportunities for all citizens, and strengthen institutions that promote justice and democracy. His message focused on hope and change, encouraging the youth to remain determined in shaping the future of the country.
Another strong contender, Mugisha Muntu of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), called for fairness and justice in governance. He pledged to release political prisoners and ensure that all Ugandans enjoy freedom of expression and association. Muntu also urged the government to respect human rights and allow open political competition.
Meanwhile, Nandala Mafabi, who was nominated on the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) ticket, entered the presidential race for the first time. He used his nomination to call on security organs to treat both government supporters and opposition members equally. Mafabi also demanded the release of Dr. Kizza Besigye, the founding member of FDC, who remains a symbol of opposition politics in Uganda.
Mafabi addressed internal divisions within the opposition, particularly the split that led to the formation of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). He described those who left the FDC as “misled” and encouraged them to reunite for the good of the party and the broader struggle for democracy.
Campaign Period to Begin
Following the successful nominations, the Electoral Commission announced that the official Presidential Campaign Period would begin on 29th September 2025 after the harmonization of campaign programs for all candidates.
The Commission also assured Ugandans of a free, fair, and peaceful election, urging all candidates to follow the electoral guidelines and conduct campaigns in a lawful and respectful manner.
As Uganda enters the campaign season, the political atmosphere is heating up. Each candidate is now preparing to take their message across the country, appealing to voters with promises of change, continuity, and progress. Museveni seeking to extend his rule and new faces like Nandala Mafabi joining the contest, Ugandans are set for one of the most closely watched elections in recent years.