Ugandan opposition leader and pop star Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has announced his intention to run for president in the upcoming 2026 elections, scheduled for January. The 43-year-old will once again challenge President Yoweri Museveni, who is expected to seek re-election at the age of 80.
Wine previously ran in the 2021 elections, finishing second. He rejected the results, alleging widespread electoral fraud, ballot stuffing, and violence against his supporters. Government officials have denied these allegations.
In his recent announcement, Wine emphasized that the election would be a “fighting opportunity” to expose what he describes as the regime’s corruption and injustices, and to galvanize Ugandans to stand up for their freedom. He also sharply criticized Western governments for not speaking out against human rights abuses in Uganda, including the torture and illegal detention of his supporters.
If elected, Wine stated that his top priorities would include restoring political freedoms, cracking down on corruption, and addressing the regime’s abuses of power.
Wine’s candidacy comes amid heightened political tensions in Uganda. Recently, his personal bodyguard and party activist, Eddie Mutwe, was reported missing for a week before appearing in court on charges of robbery. Wine claims that Mutwe was tortured during his detention, allegations that have not been addressed by Ugandan authorities.
