No Independents, No Women as Eight Presidential Hopefuls Enter 2026 Race
One notable feature of this year’s nomination exercise is the absence of both independent candidates and female aspirants. In the 2021 General Elections, independents played a significant role, while Uganda also witnessed the participation of at least one female candidate. The 2026 race, however, will be fought strictly among male candidates representing political parties.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially concluded the two-day Presidential Nomination exercise for the 2026 General Elections, held on 23rd and 24th September 2025 at the Commission’s grounds in Lweza–Lubowa, Wakiso District.
A total of eight candidates have been duly nominated to contest for the country’s highest office, with no independent aspirant and no female contender in the race — a departure from the past two election cycles where independent and female candidates featured prominently.
Day 1: Three Candidates Nominated
The first day of nominations saw the successful clearance of:
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (National Resistance Movement – NRM), who is seeking re-election on the ruling party’s ticket.
Kasibante Robert (NPP).
Mabirizi Joseph of the Conservative Party (CP).
Day 2: Five Candidates Nominated
The second and final day produced five more candidates:
Nandala Mafabi James Nathan representing the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).
Mugisha Gregory Muntu Oyera of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT).
Kyagulanyi Robert Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, running under the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Munyagwa Mubarak Sserunga (CMP).
Bulira Frank Kabinga (RPP).
This line-up reflects Uganda’s multi-party democracy, with representation from established opposition parties as well as newer entrants seeking to broaden their political base.
EC Chairperson Presides Over Process
The nomination exercise was presided over by Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and Returning Officer for Presidential Nominations. Justice Byabakama commended the candidates and their supporters for maintaining order throughout the two-day exercise, noting that all nominations were conducted in compliance with the Presidential Elections Act, Cap 179.
Campaign Trail Opens Soon
With nominations concluded, the Presidential Campaign Period will officially commence on 29th September 2025, following the harmonisation of candidates’ campaign programmes by the Commission. This process will ensure an orderly campaign schedule and equitable access to venues across the country.
A Contest Without Independents or Women
One notable feature of this year’s nomination exercise is the absence of both independent candidates and female aspirants. In the 2021 General Elections, independents played a significant role, while Uganda also witnessed the participation of at least one female candidate. The 2026 race, however, will be fought strictly among male candidates representing political parties.
As the campaign season approaches, Ugandans are expected to weigh the different visions presented by the eight candidates, ranging from continuity under President Museveni to various reformist agendas championed by the opposition. With the field now officially set, all eyes will turn to how the candidates mobilise support and address the pressing socio-economic and governance challenges facing the country.
