The Opposition has been warned against getting excited about the 2026 general election.

Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) vice-president (eastern region) Proscovia Salaamu Musumba says the Opposition should avoid being "trapped" in political excitement every five years, but instead discuss issues that affect the people.

 "We should have a plan to redirect national resources to serve the purpose of ensuring better services to the population rather than being diverted to elections," Musumba said.

Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) vice-president (eastern region) Proscovia Salaamu Musumba says the Opposition should avoid being "trapped" in political excitement

The Electoral Commission (EC) launched the roadmap for the 2026 general election, as well as the strategic plan for 2022/2023-2026/2027 on August 2, 2023.

EC chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama said the objective of these plans was to improve operational efficiency, stakeholder awareness, and participation, building upon the positive reforms and innovations from the last general elections.

However, according to Musumba, this was meant to divert Ugandans from pressing for electoral reforms. She claims elections no longer hold water arguing that they are always characterised by violence and electoral malpractices.

Musumba was appearing on Urban TV's morning programme, Rush Hour hosted by Henry Ssekanjako on Monday, September 11, 2023.

Asked whether the FDC was preparing for the 2026 general election, Musumba said: "No, at least not 2026. We are planning for more than just a mere election. We have more challenges as a country and they cannot allow us to limit our planning to election".

Leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP) Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine recently started a countrywide tour in what he said was aimed at awakening people.

Also, former FDC presidential flagbearer Dr. Kizza Besigye started on what he called structural mobilisation last week.