Kampala City Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has decided to abandon plans to contest as a presidential candidate for the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) party, citing the immense challenges of taking on long-serving President Yoweri Museveni.
His decision has shocked many political watchers and supporters who had expected him to step in as a key opposition contender.
Reports indicate that Lawyer Lukwago will instead focus on seeking re-election as Kampala City Lord Mayor. Sources say he is expected to pick nominations for the mayoral position soon. His shift in focus has left many wondering about the dynamics of Uganda’s 2026 presidential race.
Many had assumed that Lukwago would succeed jailed opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and contest for the presidency, offering a fresh alternative to Museveni. However, Lukwago has revealed that challenging Museveni is far more difficult than many anticipate, describing it as “not an easy walk over.”
Lukwago’s decision has sent shockwaves across political circles, especially within the National Unity Platform (NUP), where some had hoped to see him emerge as a strong candidate to rally opposition support. His withdrawal leaves a vacuum that several parties are now scrambling to fill.
Political insiders say Lukwago’s move has caused concern in the camp of Eng. Balimwezo, who had positioned himself for a potential victory in the event of Lukwago stepping aside. The unexpected change in plans has forced strategists to rethink their approaches to the 2026 race.
With Lukwago out of the presidential contest, reports suggest that PFF is likely to rally behind Gen. Mugisha Muntu, who has already confirmed that he will challenge his former boss, President Museveni, once again in 2026. Muntu’s candidacy could reshape the opposition landscape, bringing new energy to the campaign.
Lukwago’s revelation underscores the significant challenges facing opposition leaders in Uganda’s political environment. As he refocuses on Kampala, all eyes are now on the 2026 elections, with questions about who can successfully mount a credible challenge to Museveni’s long-standing presidency.
