Reigning Olympic 10,000m champion Joshua Cheptegei has publicly endorsed the re-election of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the 2026–2031 term.
Cheptegei, who also holds the world records in both the 5,000m and 10,000m races, commands immense respect across the Sebei community and Uganda at large.
“NRM oyee! President Museveni oyee!” he passionately chanted while addressing a cheering crowd in his native Sebei language.
He commended the peace and development the region has experienced under the current government. “We have peace in our area with no security insurgencies like in the past. There is development with the connection to the national power grid, good tarmacked roads, and people can now do business freely,” Cheptegei said.
The world champion, who is also a successful entrepreneur, has been constructing a modern hotel in Kapchorwa. President Museveni recently visited the site, an act that Cheptegei described as a great honor and motivation for young investors.
“I am humbled that H.E. @KagutaMuseveni visited the site of the hotel I am constructing. Mr. President, your words of wisdom mean so much to me and encourage me as a young investor. Your visit is a huge statement of confidence in my work. I hope you will find time for the grand opening,” Cheptegei shared.
He urged fellow youth to take part in building the nation:
“Young people, this is our country. The elders have done their part; we cannot just watch on. God will see this project to its completion. To God be the glory—great things He has done.”
Cheptegei further praised the government’s commitment to sports development, highlighting projects such as the Teryet High Altitude Training Centre in Kapchorwa, the upcoming Hoima City International Stadium, Akii Bua Stadium in Lira, and the redevelopment of Mandela National Stadium.
President Museveni concluded his Sebei Sub-region campaign trail with massive rallies in Kween and Kapchorwa districts. Next on his campaign schedule, under the theme “Protecting the Gains,” is the Bukedi region.
Over the past weeks, President Museveni has emphasized peace, security, development, wealth, and job creation as the central pillars of his 2026–2031 manifesto. Uganda is set to head to the polls in January 2026.
Cheptegei’s endorsement marks a significant moment as one of Uganda’s most celebrated athletes aligns his voice with the call for continued peace and progress in the country.
