Museveni and Kyagulanyi intensify campaigns as incidents mark Uganda’s 2026 presidential race

7 December 2025, 11:18 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The eight presidential candidates continue to canvass for votes from eligible Ugandans, who are constitutionally mandated under the 1995 Constitution (as amended) to choose the country’s next leader.

Yesterda, NRM flag bearer President Yoweri Tibuhaburwa Museveni held his first campaign rally in Kitagwenda at Kayomba Primary School. Museveni thanked God for enabling him to meet one of the veterans, Mzee Bruhan Sserunga, father of fellow presidential candidate Mubarak Munyagwa.

Addressing supporters, Museveni highlighted ongoing development initiatives, noting that government has secured funding for the Ibanda–Kagongo–Kabujogera–Kamwenge road. He also praised farmers in Kitagwenda, saying that 60 percent of households are now participating in the money economy.

The President further commended the Local Defence Unit for supporting the army in the fight against the ADF due to the district’s proximity to DR Congo.

When invited to speak, Mzee Sserunga thanked the President and encouraged residents to vote for him. He said he had supported the NRA fighters by providing shelter and that he appreciates the progress the country has made under Museveni’s leadership.

Museveni later proceeded to Fort Portal City in Kabarole District, where he reminded supporters that peace is the foundation of development. He said Uganda has progressed because the NRM rejected divisive politics and prioritised security. He emphasized that while development is public, wealth creation is a personal responsibility, urging people to use government initiatives such as commercial agriculture, factories, the Parish Development Model, and Emyooga to improve their household incomes. Residents requested an industrial park, which Museveni promised to provide once land is secured.

Meanwhile, in Gulu City, National Unity Platform presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi faced challenges ahead of his scheduled rally. The stage at the second planned venue was vandalised by unknown assailants, leaving several people injured, including his aide Daniel Oyerwok, also known as Dan Magic. Many businesses also closed due to the chaos.

Residents condemned the incident, saying all candidates deserve a peaceful campaign environment. One resident who preferred anonymity said the situation could have been avoided and urged security personnel to act professionally to prevent a repeat of incidents seen in 2021. She emphasized that elections come and go, and Ugandans must protect their country.

Presidential campaigns are scheduled to end on 13 January 2026, and polling will take place on 15 January 2026.