Former presidential candidate Nancy Linda Kalembe has officially collected her nomination forms from the Electoral Commission, signaling her intent to contest the 2026 presidential election.
Ms Kalembe, the only female candidate in the 2021 race, is making a return to challenge the status quo and advocate for transformative leadership.
In the 2021 election, Kalembe garnered 38,772 votes, accounting for roughly 0.37% of the total ballots cast.
She trailed behind incumbent President Museveni, who secured over six million votes, and other contenders including Robert Kyagulanyi and Patrick Amuriat.
Despite the modest outcome, Kalembe’s campaign focused on issues such as poverty alleviation, unemployment, and infrastructure development.
Her decision to run again underscores a commitment to policies aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Ugandans.
Kalembe’s platform for 2026 is expected to emphasize economic empowerment, education, and healthcare reforms, seeking to offer equitable opportunities for all citizens.
The upcoming election promises to be highly competitive, with more than 120 individuals having already picked nomination forms.
Kalembe’s candidacy adds to the diversity of voices in the political landscape, particularly female leadership.
Historically, few women have contested Uganda’s presidency. Before Kalembe, Miria Matembe, Betty Kamya, and Maureen Kyalya had attempted bids for the top office.
Kalembe’s 2021 run marked a significant moment as the first woman to contest the presidency in the country, and her return in 2026 highlights ongoing efforts toward gender parity in Ugandan politics.
Her campaign is poised to inspire more women to participate actively in leadership roles, contributing to a more inclusive and representative democratic process.
A record high Ugandans from all walks of life numbering more than 120 have so far picked nomination forms in what could turn out to be the most crowded presidential race in the country's democratic history.
