Five presidential candidates participated in Uganda’s 2025 debate hosted by Nation Media Group as the country prepares for the 2026 elections. Participants included General Mugisha Muntu (ANT), Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (National Unity Platform), Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC), Joseph Elton Mabirizi (Conservative Party), and Frank Bulira Kabinga (Revolutionary People’s Party). Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni (NRM) and two others, Robert Kasibante and Mubarak Munyagwa Sserunga, did not attend. Observers discussed candidates’ performances during the debate.

The Electoral Commission (EC) requested a supplementary budget of Shs469.5 billion to prepare for Uganda’s January 2026 general elections. Acting Secretary Richard Kamugisha said the funds will cover upgraded Biometric Voter Verification equipment, a national de-duplication system, and expanded polling stations, which will increase logistics and staff costs. The budget also includes voter register printing, welfare for officials, and the Electronic Results Transmission System. Parliament’s Budget Committee is reviewing the request.

IGP Byakagaba called for calm and lawfulness as Uganda approaches the January 2026 general elections, citing recent confrontations during campaigns that caused injuries, property damage, and arrests. He highlighted incidents in Lira, Abim, Kawempe, Kayunga, and Iganga. He also acknowledged the Mbarara crackdown on Bobi Wine supporters. Byakagaba urged candidates, parties, and citizens to respect electoral guidelines, warned against violence and illegal activities, and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to ensure safe and orderly elections.

Robert Kyagulanyi urged his supporters to prepare alternative communication methods, warning that the government could shut down the internet during the upcoming presidential election. He said past elections had included similar shutdowns, which he believes enabled large-scale vote rigging in favor of specific candidates. Kyagulanyi delivered the message while campaigning in Masaka City, telling supporters to stay organized and ready to maintain communication throughout the election period.

Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba inspected the L-39 Skyfox demonstrator at the UPDF Entebbe Air Base as Uganda evaluates new aircraft to modernize its Air Force. A delegation from Czech manufacturer Aero Vodochody briefed him and senior commanders on the jet’s training and light-combat capabilities. Muhoozi emphasized technology, training, and professionalism as core to the UPDF’s modernization agenda, which aims to upgrade aging assets, expand pilot training, and strengthen operational readiness amid evolving security demands.

Winnie Kiiza urged Uganda’s opposition parties to prioritize political strategy over electoral numbers by preparing for a parliamentary boycott if they dispute the presidential election. She challenged parties to assess whether their MPs are willing to take bold action, citing former MP Crispus Kiyonga’s historic boycott as an example. Kiiza said past discussions in the FDC revealed weak coordination and called on opposition groups to evaluate their readiness as they mobilize ahead of the 2026 elections.