President Museveni Duly Nominated, EC Confirms Compliance With Election Laws

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was today officially nominated to contest in the 2026 general elections, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most closely watched political seasons in Uganda’s recent history. The ceremony, conducted at the Electoral Commission’s nomination centre in Lweza, drew the attention of both political actors and the general public, as the long-serving head of state prepared to extend his decades in office.

Museveni arrived shortly before mid-morning, accompanied by the First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni, senior government officials, and top National Resistance Movement leaders. The entourage included Speaker of Parliament Anitah Among, her deputy Thomas Tayebwa, and several cabinet ministers. His nomination papers were presented to the Commission by Counsel Edwin Karugire, who underscored the President’s eligibility by affirming that all statutory requirements had been met.

Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama confirmed the successful nomination after a thorough verification exercise. “We have examined all the documents, and he has fulfilled the requirements as provided for in the law,” he said, before issuing Museveni with the certificate of compliance and other instruments accorded to presidential candidates. These include official security detail and a designated lead car.

The nomination process follows strict guidelines under the Presidential Elections Act, which demands that aspirants must be Ugandan by birth, of voting age, and hold at least an Advanced Level qualification or its equivalent. They must also present endorsements from at least 100 registered voters drawn from no fewer than 98 districts, as well as pay a non-refundable fee of 20 million shillings. Academic credentials, proof of voter registration, and declaration forms are among the other mandatory submissions.

With the process complete, Museveni moved to Kololo Independence Grounds where thousands of jubilant supporters awaited him. Chants of “Oyee” echoed across the grounds as party loyalists celebrated what they described as a continuation of a transformative journey. NRM officials framed his nomination as a vote of confidence in his ability to maintain stability while guiding Uganda through a period of economic reforms and regional integration.

Speaking to supporters, Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to consolidating the gains of the past decades, pledging to deepen wealth creation programmes and strengthen Uganda’s position in the African Continental Free Trade Area. “Our mission remains to secure the future of Ugandans by building on what we have already achieved,” he said, stressing that peace and prosperity remain central to his agenda.

Analysts note that his nomination formally places him on the ballot alongside other political contenders, with the Electoral Commission confirming at least five parties have successfully completed the nomination process. Among these are the Forum for Democratic Change, the National Unity Platform, the Conservative Party, and the National Peasants Party. Others are expected to be cleared in the coming days.

As the campaign season approaches, the focus will now shift to how Museveni and his challengers articulate their visions for the country. For the ruling party, today’s nomination was not just a procedural milestone but also a symbolic rallying point that energised its base and reaffirmed its intent to retain power in 2026.