Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni is set to seek another term in office, extending his nearly four-decade rule, according to a senior official from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ruling party. This confirmation, though widely anticipated, marks the first official announcement from the NRM. Uganda is slated to hold its general election in January of next year, a poll in which voters will also elect their lawmakers.

President Museveni, aged 80, has maintained his grip on power since 1986, making him Africa’s fourth-longest-ruling leader. His extended tenure has been facilitated by the ruling party, which has twice amended the constitution to allow him to continue his leadership. The official confirmation of his re-election bid came via Tanga Odoi, the chairperson of the NRM’s electoral body. In a video posted late on Monday by state broadcaster UBC on the social media platform X, Odoi stated that Museveni would pick up expression-of-interest forms on June 28. These forms are for two crucial positions: chairperson of the party and, if given the chance, the presidential flag bearer for the upcoming polls.

Currently, the NRM and other political parties are in the process of vetting and clearing their respective candidates for the highly anticipated elections. Museveni's most formidable opponent is expected to be Bobi Wine, the popular pop star-turned-politician whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi. Wine secured second place in the last general election in 2021 and has already publicly declared his intention to contest in 2026. Following the 2021 results, Wine vehemently rejected the outcome, alleging that his victory was stolen through various irregularities, including ballot stuffing and intimidation by security forces.

Rights activists and critics have frequently accused President Museveni of leveraging patronage networks and security forces to consolidate and maintain his prolonged hold on power. However, Museveni has consistently refuted these allegations, asserting that his enduring rule is a direct reflection of widespread popular support among the Ugandan populace.