Ahead of the 2026 general elections, Ugandans are closely watching the potential for a transitional leadership, particularly in the highest office of the President of Uganda.
Uganda holds elections at all levels of governance every five years, and the 2021-2026 term is nearing its end. The contestation for various positions, including the presidency, is intensifying.
Many Ugandans believe it is time for a generational shift in leadership to consolidate the revolutionary achievements of the current government. After 40 years of leadership under Gen. Yoweri Museveni Tibuhaburwa, many Ugandans are calling for Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba to take on the presidency.
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba is seen as the best choice to maintain the revolutionary achievements and protect the legacy of Mzee Museveni, who has led Uganda to total democracy, peace, stability, improved healthcare, streamlined education, infrastructure development, and a focus on household income.
However, Ugandans are concerned about the growing vices of corruption, arrogance, impunity, and abuse of office by many government officials. They believe these issues are testing the leadership of Mzee Museveni and, if not addressed, could lead to a return to the problems of past leaders.
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s recent tours in different parts of Uganda and the warm reception he has received are clear indicators of Ugandans’ readiness to embrace change through a peaceful and democratic process that will ensure continued peace and stability.
The growing demand for a transition in 2026 has led to stakeholder engagements. The Chairman of the Civil organization PLU, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, hosted the Secretary General of the ruling party-NRM, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, at SFC headquarters in Entebbe on September 2nd, 2024.
Two weeks later, the National Vice Chairman of PLU, Chairman Nuwagira Michael Kaguta, was welcomed at the NRM secretariat in Kyadondo for a stakeholder engagement with the Secretary General of the NRM party.
These engagements have focused on bridging the gap between NRM and PLU, removing factions within the party, and ensuring that elders can peacefully and respectfully listen to the voices of young Ugandans and their desire for change in 2026.
Some Ugandans believe that if the NRM party is not ready to endorse Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba as their presidential flag bearer, PLU should register as a political party and allow Ugandans to decide in a democratic election.
As Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba is still actively serving in the UPDF, he is currently unable to engage in active politics due to military regulations. His candidacy will ultimately depend on the decision of the Commander in Chief, the current President, Mzee Museveni.
With many Ugandans supporting Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba as their next President, the future of the country’s leadership remains uncertain.
