Kyagulanyi aims for 20 million voters in 2026 drive

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National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, says his target for the 2026 presidential campaign is to reach at least 20 million Ugandans during the three-month campaign period.

“We are trying to reach every young person. We don’t have much time. Everyone here has never seen a new president. This is our chance,” he said.

“We can be like Kenya, Botswana, and other countries that have changed leadership. We are a rich country with a lot of mineral wealth and lakes — what we lack is leadership,” he added.

Kyagulanyi made the remarks at Mile 8 in Tororo North on Thursday, October 16, while continuing his campaign tour of the Bukedi region.

The rally followed an earlier address in which the opposition figure urged Ugandans not to lose faith in the country’s electoral process, insisting that change remains possible through the ballot despite the challenges.

National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, addressing voters. (Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

(Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

Kyagulanyi acknowledged the widespread frustration among citizens over what many see as unfair past elections but encouraged them to remain steadfast and engaged in democratic processes.

“I know many of you have lost hope because of what happened in past elections. Don’t lose hope in the vote,” he said while campaigning in Butaleja district.

“Electoral Commission statistics show there are about 19 million registered voters, but many people don’t turn up to vote. We cannot give up. Every dictatorship wants people to surrender and stop believing in their power. We must continue to vote, to organise, and to defend our voice.”

He urged Ugandans to believe in the power of their vote, citing examples of other African countries, including what is happening in Cameroon.

“Tell everyone to vote because there is hope ahead. I want you to believe in your vote because, through elections, leaders like Paul Biya of Cameroon are being defeated — and the same can happen here in Uganda,” Kyagulanyi said.

Kyagulanyi’s call for greater participation echoes recent concerns from the Electoral Commission (EC) over low voter turnout.

EC chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama recently expressed concern that voter apathy has led to the wastage of resources during elections.

“While the Electoral Commission registered about 18 million voters for the 2021 General Election, only about 11 million turned up to vote. About 10 million ballot papers worth millions of shillings were wasted because of the low turnout,” Justice Byabakama said.

He reminded citizens that elections are organised for voters to choose their leaders, not merely for candidates, and warned against voter bribery, which he said undermines democracy and often results in costly by-elections.

Justice Byabakama urged all stakeholders to educate the public on the importance of voting, noting that participation is not only a constitutional right but also crucial for strengthening democracy and the rule of law.