By Andrew Victor Mawanda Naimanye
Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, has dismissed the recent wave of presidential aspirants as lacking the political depth and national appeal required to challenge President Museveni in 2026.
Speaking on NBS Frontline on Thursday night, Baryomunsi emphasised the sharp distinction between local-level political strength and national electability, arguing that many opposition figures overestimate their reach.
“Parliamentary elections and Presidential elections are miles apart,” Baryomunsi stated. “You can be strong in your area, but things are different at the Presidential level.”
His comments come amid heightened political activity from opposition parties, including the recent endorsement of Nathan Nandala Mafabi by the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) as their 2026 presidential flag bearer.
Baryomunsi acknowledged Uganda’s multiparty framework that allows individuals to contest for the presidency, but he maintained that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) remains the dominant political force.
“The NRM ushered in this dispensation where anyone who feels they are capable and has the minimum requirements can stand for presidency,” he said. “However, none of these aspirants is a match for President Museveni.”
Baryomunsi’s remarks signal the ruling party’s confidence in Museveni’s continued hold on national politics as Uganda inches closer to another high-stakes election cycle. Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, has since confirmed his candidacy for 2026 and is widely expected to seek reelection.