2026 Uganda Presidential Candidates: Meet All 40 Presidential Aspirants

Ugandans are set to head to the polls from January 12 to February 9, 2026, to elect leaders at all levels, including the President of Uganda, Members of Parliament, and Local Government Councils. According to Article 61(2) of the Constitution, the nomination and electoral processes for presidential candidates are scheduled as follows:

• Presidential nominations: September 23–24, 2025

• Parliamentary nominations: September 16–17, 2025

• Academic credential submission for presidential aspirants: August 1, 2025

• Resignation of public servants for parliamentary race: June 13, 2025

• Resignation of public servants for presidential race: October 1, 2025

  
  

As of now, at least 40 candidates have expressed interest in the 2026 Uganda presidential elections. Below is a detailed look at the prominent presidential aspirants.

1. Ivan Kisaakye – Media Personality Turned Presidential Aspirant

Ivan Kisaakye, born in 1992, is a media veteran and music manager. He has hosted shows on Top TV, Top Radio, and Salt Media, gaining public recognition for engaging with citizen concerns. Married to Brendah Naiga Kisaakye, Ivan now aims to tackle Uganda’s challenges as a presidential candidate in 2026.

2. Nathan Nandala Mafabi – Experienced Politician and Accountant

Born in 1966, Nathan Nandala Mafabi serves as the Budadiri West MP and is the FDC presidential flag bearer for 2026. A former Leader of the Opposition and financial management consultant, Mafabi advocates for legislative reforms and farmers’ rights.

3. Tumwesigye Richard Mutebi – Medical Officer Aspiring for Change

Tumwesigye, a former medical officer, campaigns under the symbol of a table with the slogan “The Uganda We Deserve.” He aims to reform Uganda’s medical, agricultural, and economic sectors.

4. James Mubangizi – Academic and Energy Expert

James Mubangizi is a lecturer and Head of the Department of Oil and Gas at Victoria University, Kampala. His research focuses on economic growth, renewable energy, and climate change in Uganda. He holds a PhD in Energy Economics and Governance from Makerere University.

5. Mugisha Muntu – Retired Military Officer and Opposition Leader

Mugisha Muntu, former UPDF Army Commander, transitioned into politics and founded the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) in 2019. He is known for principled governance and ethical political leadership.

6. Mubarak Munyagwa – Comedian-Turned-Politician

Munyagwa, former Kawempe South MP and president of the Common Man’s Party, gained prominence during the 2011 “Walk to Work” protests. He is now contesting the 2026 Uganda presidential elections.

7. George William Magera – Progressive Party Leader

George William Magera, president of the People’s Progressive Party, focuses on education, poverty, and health reforms, while pursuing a Master’s in International Policy and Practice.

8. Peace Merisha Akello – Youth Activist and Presidential Aspirant

A recent Kyambogo University graduate, Peace campaigns for women’s rights, youth empowerment, and anti-corruption initiatives, representing Uganda’s next generation of leaders.

9. Apostle Henry Byamukama – Religious Leader and Labour Party Secretary-General

Founder of Faith Life Ministries and Encounter Jesus Worldwide Ministries, Henry Byamukama combines faith-driven initiatives with political ambitions for the 2026 elections.

10. Muhammad Nsereko – Independent MP and Lawyer

Nsereko represents Kampala Central Division and holds a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University. He emphasizes legal reform and governance in his presidential campaign.

Other Notable 2026 Uganda Presidential Candidates

• Bobi Wine – Popular musician and former MP, well-known for grassroots activism

• Yoweri Museveni – Current President of Uganda, in power since 1986

• Noah Denis Mubiru – Author and businessman advocating youth empowerment

• Joseph Kabuleta – Journalist, pastor, and 2021 presidential candidate

• John Katumba – Political science graduate focusing on youth and economic reform

• Benjamin Kalyesubula – Former NUP member with focus on healthcare, education, and digital governance

• Robert Alena – Advocates for free student scholarships

• Sam Koojo, Alvin Mivule, Wycliffe Wasajja, Elton Joseph Mabirizi – Young leaders promoting jobs, education, and Pan-Africanism

• Mutassa Kafeero, Moses Mayanja, Robert Mbulambago Mutono, Gerald Malinga – Reformists targeting governance, federalism, and poverty eradication

• Ayeza Abigail Victoria, Jorine Najjemba, Pollin Nankambwe, Yvonne Mpambara – Emerging female voices in Ugandan politics

• Mathew Mutyaba – Disabled presidential aspirant advocating for youth employment

• David Mugabi, Magezi David William, Usaama Abdallah Ssemogerere – Candidates focused on anti-corruption and systemic change

• Pastor Joseph Kiganda, Voniter Nassanga, Godwin Birungi, Jolivious Akankwasa, Deogratius Akampurira – Advocates of democracy, health, education, and road safety reforms

As Uganda gears up for the 2026 presidential elections, the growing list of presidential candidates reflects a dynamic political landscape, combining experienced politicians, youth leaders, academics, and activists. This evolving field of 2026 Uganda presidential candidates promises a competitive race as voters evaluate the aspirations, visions, and policies of each aspirant.