The Ugandan election happening on January 15, 2025, is a battle between the old and the new, the underdog and the veteran, yet the outcome of this election is pivotal for a young population seeking change.
Africa has a big problem; leaders refuse to relinquish power while suppressing the population, and Uganda is no different. The country prepares for a presidential rematch between the long-standing leader, 81-year-old Yoweri Museveni, and the young opposition candidate, 43-year-old Bobi Wine. 
Both political groups target the same youthful demographic but promote contrasting visions for Uganda’s future. This demographic is important, as the median age in Uganda stands at just 17.
Museveni’s campaign uses the slogan “Protecting the Gains”, arguing for stability and continuity by highlighting past successes, which include things like roads and electricity.
Conversely, Wine’s National Unity Platform leverages calls for change and liberation with its “Protest Vote” slogan, resonating with the frustration and aspirations of the youth.
Despite its youthful population, Uganda’s political landscape is marred by a leadership that has remained static for decades. Museveni has been in power since January 29, 1986. If he wins again, he will have been in power for 40 years!
Yoweri Museveni
Museveni rose to power following a rebellion led by his National Resistance Movement (NRM) to overthrow General Tito Okello‘s military regime. After the NRM’s victory, Museveni, who led the armed faction, assumed the presidency and has continued to be re-elected in subsequent elections.
The forthcoming presidential election raises concerns about Uganda’s leadership succession, particularly regarding Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Museveni’s son. Kainerugaba’s growing power in military and public has spurred conversations of a transition based on hereditary claims. A nepo president if you will.
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Bobi Wine
Museveni’s opponent Bobi Wine is 43 years old. His real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. He grew up in Kampala and was influenced by a family history of political struggle, transitioning from a successful music career focused on social issues to politics in 2017, winning a by-election decisively.
Wine lost the presidential elections in 2021. In the midst of alleged electoral fraud, the electoral commission announced that he got 35% of the vote compared to Museveni’s 59%
Let’s also not forget how Bobi Wine was placed under house arrest on December 14, 2021, and he has also been arrested numerous times.
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Who Will Win The 2026 Ugandan Election?
President Museveni is anticipated to secure victory; Uganda’s electoral history is full of accusations of unfair electoral practices. Even the UN has flagged the elections as taking place in a climate of widespread repression against political opposition and human rights advocates, so no one really has hopes of a truly democratic arrangement.
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