Road to 2026 Polls: Are Political Parties Ready?

By Amb. Henry Mayega

Uganda's political landscape has expanded since the 2005 referendum, with a growing number of political parties preparing for the 2026 general elections. Among these are the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Uganda People's Congress (UPC), Democratic Party (DP), National Unity Platform (NUP), and JEEMA, all represented in Parliament.

However, the key question remains: how prepared are these political parties for the upcoming polls? Their readiness can be assessed based on unity, resources, visibility, leadership strength, membership size, governance capacity, and past performance.

NRM's Dominance in Party Unity

The NRM, under the leadership of President Yoweri Museveni, stands out for its strong internal unity. Its leadership demonstrates stability, cohesion, and a sense of purpose, qualities that other parties often struggle to maintain. Many opposition parties face internal divisions and infighting, which weaken their chances of competing effectively in 2026.

Political Visibility

President Museveni's and the NRM’s long tenure in power gives them unmatched visibility among Ugandan voters. No other party commands a comparable level of national recognition, with the exception of the historically significant UPC and DP. However, both these parties remain overshadowed by their independence-era focus, leaving newer parties like NUP and others grappling with limited political visibility.

Resource Advantage

The NRM boasts substantial resources, sourced from its large parliamentary representation, government funding, and contributions from party members and allies. Its collaborations with global political partners and domestic networks further strengthen its position. No other party on Uganda’s political stage can match this level of resourcefulness.

Proven Governance Record

Since 1986, the NRM has transformed Uganda’s political landscape, ensuring regular and predictable elections, maintaining peace, and restoring the country's international standing. This governance track record, coupled with President Museveni’s leadership, resonates with many voters who remember the instability of past regimes marked by coups and human rights violations.

Opposition Challenges

Opposition parties have struggled with erratic messaging, unconvincing leadership, and internal discord. Some leaders' claims that elections cannot remove President Museveni undermine their credibility. Additionally, opposition figures who distanced themselves from the Anti-Homosexuality Bill have alienated conservative voters, potentially impacting their support in 2026.

Museveni’s Magnanimity

President Museveni’s ability to reconcile with former political opponents is another advantage. His openness to accommodating opposition figures has strengthened his appeal, with some likely to align with the NRM ahead of the elections. This, coupled with incumbency benefits, positions him strongly for the 2026 polls.

As Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections, the NRM appears well-prepared to maintain its dominance. Its unity, resources, and leadership set it apart, while opposition parties face significant hurdles in presenting a united and credible challenge. For voters, the choices will likely hinge on these factors, with the NRM poised to capitalize on its advantages.