UPC President Jimmy Akena Outlines Party's 2025 Election Plans and Confirms 2026 Presidential Bid

Jan 22, 2025 - 12:59
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UPC President Jimmy Akena Outlines Party's 2025 Election Plans and Confirms 2026 Presidential Bid

The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) is gearing up for the 2025 general elections, with plans to field candidates at all levels of leadership, party president Hon. Jimmy Akena announced this during a press briefing in Kampala on Wednesday.

Speaking to the media, Akena revealed that the party is focused on ensuring full participation across the board, from the presidential race to local government positions. He emphasized that the UPC is committed to strengthening its democratic processes through primaries, which will give aspiring candidates an opportunity to present themselves and compete fairly.

“We are preparing and filling candidates across the board from the presidential level all the way down,” Akena said. “We shall go through a process of primaries to allow time for people to show themselves and compete in a structured manner.”

Akena further announced his intention to run for president of Uganda in 2026, affirming his commitment to support whoever emerges as the party’s flag bearer. “I have made it clear that in 2026 I am running for president of Uganda, and whoever wins the seat for the party flag, I will support him or her under UPC,” Akena said.

The selection process for special interest groups is set to commence in June, as the party works toward building an inclusive platform ahead of the elections.

Regarding the presidential elections, Akena highlighted the importance of meeting the constitutional requirement of a "50 plus 1" majority to secure victory. “The formula requires a candidate to win by an absolute majority. As UPC, we are prepared to meet this challenge,” he said.

In addition to national preparations, the UPC is also focused on local elections, including the upcoming by-election in Kawempe. According to Akena, the candidate for the by-election will be selected through the party’s structures, and he pledged his support for whoever is endorsed by the party.

“I am willing to support the candidate chosen by the party structure,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective decision-making within the party.

The UPC’s announcements come as political parties across the country ramp up preparations for the highly anticipated 2025 general elections. With a focus on inclusion, internal democracy, and strategic planning, the UPC is positioning itself as a key contender in Uganda’s political landscape.

Benjamin Mwibo Benjamin Mwibo is a talented, passionate and creative journalist with a commitment to high quality out put that is factual and researched. Above all Dedicated with a strong desire to identify the truth of the matter.