Ugandan musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, has officially launched his presidential campaign for the 2026 election. On September 24, Kyagulanyi, who is the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), was nominated by the Electoral Commission to run for the country’s top office. This marks his second attempt at the presidency, having previously run in the 2021 election.

Kyagulanyi’s nomination was met with enthusiasm from his supporters, who gathered in large numbers to cheer him on. The event was also attended by other NUP officials, including Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of Opposition, and Lewis Rubongoya, the party’s secretary general. In his speech, Kyagulanyi emphasized the need for change in Uganda, citing the country’s history of repression and human rights abuses.

The 2026 election is expected to be a highly contested one, with incumbent President Yoweri Museveni seeking to extend his 40-year rule. Museveni, who was nominated a day earlier, has a significant advantage in terms of resources and experience. However, Kyagulanyi’s popularity among young Ugandans and his ability to mobilize support through social media and music make him a formidable opponent.

The election campaign is already marked by tension and fear, with several NUP supporters and officials having been arrested or abducted by state agents. Kyagulanyi’s bodyguard, Eddie Mutwe, was recently arrested and tortured, while other party officials, including Achileo Kivumbi and Waiswa Mufumbiro, are currently in jail. The government has been accused of using intimidation and violence to suppress opposition, with many Ugandans expressing concern about the safety of voters and candidates.

Despite these challenges, Kyagulanyi remains committed to his campaign, which he sees as a fight for survival in a political landscape dominated by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). The NUP has been actively mobilizing support across the country, with a focus on the populous regions of Buganda and Busoga. However, the party faces significant obstacles, including the co-option of other opposition parties by the NRM and the detention of key opposition figures, such as Dr. Kizza Besigye.

The 2026 election will be closely watched by Ugandans and international observers, who will be monitoring the campaign for signs of fairness and transparency. With the country’s history of electoral violence and manipulation, there are concerns about the potential for unrest and instability. As the campaign heats up, Kyagulanyi and his supporters will be pushing for a free and fair election, while Museveni and the NRM will be seeking to maintain their grip on power.