The conclusion of the two-day nomination exercise marks the official start of the 2026 presidential race, with the campaign period scheduled to kick off on Monday, September 29, 2025.

The exercise was presided over by Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the EC Chairperson and Returning Officer for Presidential Nominations.

The Eight Cleared Candidates include;
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (NRM): Seeking a seventh term, Museveni is fronting a campaign anchored on infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and anti-corruption. In power since 1986, his leadership faces criticism over authoritarian tendencies and human rights concerns. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) (National Unity Platform – NUP): A prominent opposition leader and former pop star, running on an anti-corruption and good governance platform. His campaign appeals strongly to Uganda’s youthful and urban electorate