20-year-old student announces bid to unseat Museveni in 2026
Jorine Najjemba, who completed her senior six studies last year, on Monday picked nomination forms to contest in the upcoming elections.
A 20-year-old senior six student from Nkowe has officially entered Uganda’s 2026 presidential race, positioning herself as a youthful alternative to the country’s long-serving leadership.
Jorine Najjemba, who completed her senior six studies last year, on Monday picked nomination forms to contest in the upcoming elections.
More To Read
- Uganda’s NUP moves to court to block civilians being tried in military courts
- Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye denied bail as treason trial drags on
- Uganda to host two million refugees by end of 2025 due to escalating crises - UN
- Ugandan, South Sudanese military leaders hold talks amid border dispute
- Border tensions flare as Uganda and South Sudan trade blame over deadly clash
- Uganda elections: FDC party confirms Nandala Mafabi as presidential candidate for 2026
She said her candidacy is aimed at offering fresh ideas and leadership that prioritises compassion and understanding.
“I finished form six last year. I’m 20 years old. I have come to aspire for the presidency, and I’m looking for your votes and support. Everyone willing out there, support me, put your trust in me.
Some of you might judge me because I’m a lady and say I can’t do it,” she said.
She criticised what she described as harsh leadership in the country, vowing to lead with empathy. “We are tired of harsh people within our country; we want people who are going to understand others, people who have a sense of humanity within them. That is none other than me,” she added.
Running under the slogan 'Open Door, New Uganda for Everyone', Najjemba said she wants to make the country open to all and push for inclusive leadership.
She revealed her political ambitions began in 2016 while in primary six and expressed her determination to contribute to change.
Najjemba said she can steer the country to a better future despite her age. “Trust me, do not judge me because of my age and appearance, I may be small, but I can do greater things,” she stated.
Her bid has been made possible by a 2017 constitutional amendment that removed the presidential age limit.
Before the change, Article 102(b) of the 1995 Constitution required candidates to be at least 35 and not more than 75 years old. The amendment, passed by Parliament and signed into law in December 2017, eliminated these restrictions.
Najjemba will be contesting against long-serving President Yoweri Museveni, among other candidates.
Museveni, who has been in power since January 1986, is expected to pick nomination papers from the National Resistance Movement Electoral Commission offices for the 2026 race.
His 39-year rule has been marked by both economic progress and criticism over authoritarian governance and human rights concerns.
Top Stories Today
