The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) briefed an East African Community pre-election assessment team on preparations for the 2026 general elections and activated its Human Rights Election Situation Room. Chairperson Mariam Wangadya stated that the center will monitor polls in real-time, handle complaints, and issue reports nationwide. She urged early deployment of observers and outlined ongoing engagement with electoral, security, media, and political stakeholders.

Analysts predict President Yoweri Museveni will likely win Uganda’s January 15, 2026, election, as in 2021. Opposition leader Bobi Wine continues to mobilize young voters, but government repression, arrests, and internal party disputes limit his impact. Observers highlight speculation about Museveni’s son, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as a potential successor, noting that political maneuvering within the ruling party could shape Uganda’s future even after the election.

Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba warned political actors against instigating violence during the 2026 general elections and said security forces would act decisively to preserve peace. Speaking in Kampala, he urged politicians to follow Electoral Commission rules and voters to cast ballots and leave polling stations. He said the UPDF would maintain constant vigilance and remain professional and neutral during the polls.

The Uganda Prisons Service trained senior officers on National Resistance Movement ideology and placed all prison units on standby Class One ahead of the 2026 elections. Commissioner Moses Kamugisha urged officers to uphold discipline, professionalism, and responsible communication. Under the directive, officers must remain fully alert and conduct routine patrols within and around prisons and staff barracks to prevent security breaches and support national stability.

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) promoted more than 30 senior officers and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security during Uganda’s 2026 elections, with commanders stressing merit, discipline, and responsibility. At the same time, analysts warned that the election cycle could create short-term investment risks, including increased security measures, regulatory delays, and fiscal pressure. While major political change appears unlikely, businesses may face operational disruptions across key sectors during the polls.

Opposition parties in the Acholi Sub-Region formed a joint committee to coordinate campaigns and challenge the National Resistance Movement in the 2026 elections. The group includes NUP, DP, FDC, UPC, ANT, PFF, and independents, and elected former MP Christopher Acire as chairperson. The committee plans joint campaigns, consensus candidates, and legal action over violence during a recent opposition rally in Gulu City.