Ugandan opposition leader and musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine has confirmed his candidacy for the 2026 presidential election, scheduled for January. At 43, Wine—whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu—will once again challenge President Yoweri Museveni, 80, who has ruled Uganda since 1986 and is widely expected to seek a seventh term .
A Renewed Bid Amid Escalating Repression
Wine previously ran in t he 2021 election, finishing second and rejecting the results due to alleged widespread fraud and state-led violence against his supporters. His upcoming campaign is framed as both a political challenge and a protest against what he describes as systemic human rights abuses under Museveni’s regime .
In recent statements, Wine criticized Western governments for their silence on these abuses, including the abduction and torture of his supporters. Notably, his chief bodyguard, Eddie Mutwe, was reportedly detained and tortured by Museveni’s son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who admitted on social media to the abuse .
Facing Personal Risks
Wine has expressed concerns for his safety, stating, “If I am still alive and not in jail by the end of this year, then I’m going to run for presidency, again” . He anticipates a violent election, citing past abuses and irregularities, including the death of an NUP MP allegedly tortured by the regime.
Advocating for Uganda’s Youth
With 80% of Uganda’s population under the age of 35, Wine believes that the youth are pivotal to political change. He emphasizes the potential of Uganda’s young population and natural resources if corruption is addressed. His wife, Barbie Kyagulanyi, remains an active figure in the movement, advocating for women’s rights .
International Attention
Wine’s struggle has been documented in the Oscar-nominated film “Bobi Wine: The People’s President,” which chronicles his journey during the 2021 election. He calls on the international community to support democratic values over financial aid, emphasizing the need for targeted sanctions on the corrupt Ugandan regime .
As Uganda approaches the 2026 elections, Wine’s candidacy underscores the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in the country.
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