Staff Reporter

Uganda’s Electoral Commission has announced January 15 as the date for the country’s next general election, a poll where octogenarian President Yoweri Museveni is set to seek an extension of his nearly four-decade rule.

Museveni, now Africa’s fourth longest-ruling leader, has been in office since 1986.

His government has twice altered the constitution to eliminate both age and term limits, paving the way for him to continuously seek re-election.

The veteran leader is expected to face his main challenger, 43-year-old pop star, now politician, Bobi Wine, for a second time.

Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, commands support among Uganda’s young voters, translating his music stardom into political momentum.

Wine, who was the main opposition figure in the 2021 election, has publicly alleged that Museveni secured victory through widespread ballot-stuffing, bribery, intimidation, and other rigging tactics.

In addition to the presidential contest, which features six other candidates from smaller parties, voters will also elect members of parliament.

Museveni, a former rebel, has been credited with stabilizing Uganda, driving economic growth, and successfully combating the HIV/Aids epidemic.