Published on 23/09/2025
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was on Tuesday officially endorsed by the Independent Electoral Commission as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential candidate for the 2026–2031 term. His nomination reaffirmed his stewardship of the ruling party and set the stage for a new phase of Uganda’s growth agenda.
Following his nomination, Museveni reflected on the nation’s progress since 1986, when he first assumed leadership.
“Where we are moving to now is to again convince the people of Uganda of what has been achieved in the past, and what we are planning to do next,” he said.
The Head of State outlined two core priorities for the next term.
The first, he explained, is to collaborate with Uganda’s growing middle class and global investors to lift the country from its current lower–middle-income position into the high–middle-income bracket, with the ultimate goal of approaching first-world standards.
“If you check the figures, the GDP of Uganda has doubled—from about $34 billion to $66 billion. To double the size of GDP in one term is not a mean achievement,” Museveni noted, attributing this expansion to advancements in infrastructure, electricity supply, telecommunications, and a skilled workforce.
He further stressed that Uganda’s stability continues to draw international investment.
“People in the world are looking for a peaceful and profitable area where to invest,” he said, branding Uganda as “peaceful, profitable,” and resilient.
The second focus, Museveni explained, is addressing the everyday needs of citizens. His pledges include ensuring every Ugandan participates in the money economy, expanding free education in all government schools, maintaining and upgrading roads, strengthening health services with reliable access to medicines, and guaranteeing safe water in every village.
“Everybody must be involved in the money economy,” he emphasized, underscoring that inclusive prosperity will define his next administration.
The NRM leader is expected to expand on these themes later today during a major rally at Kololo Independence Grounds, framing his campaign around past successes and a renewed promise of socio-economic transformation.
He was accompanied to the nomination by First Lady and Education Minister Maama Janet Museveni, senior members of the NRM Central Executive Committee, Secretary General Rt Hon Richard Todwong, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, cabinet ministers, and other top party officials.
