Bobi Wine Cleared for Presidential Nomination: Political Showdown Set for September 24, 2025

Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, widely known as Bobi Wine, the National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential flagbearer, is officially cleared and scheduled for nomination on September 24, 2025. This event solidifies his candidacy for the 2026 Ugandan general elections, marking his continued challenge against incumbent President Yoweri Museveni.

Official Clearance and Nomination Schedule

The Electoral Commission (EC) confirmed Bobi Wine’s eligibility after verifying over 100 supporters from at least two-thirds of Uganda’s districts, meeting the legal requirements stipulated in the Presidential Elections Act. Initially, some nomination signatures were rejected, but after resubmission and verification, the EC issued the certificate of compliance signed by Justice Simon Byabakama on September 19, 2025.

The nomination date was deferred by the EC from September 23 to 24 to avoid coinciding with Museveni’s nomination, a move criticized by Bobi Wine’s camp as an attempt to frustrate their campaign plans.

Political Background and Significance

Bobi Wine is a former Kyadondo East Member of Parliament, gaining popularity as a musician turned politician and activist. His People Power movement galvanized youth support, evolving into the NUP in 2020. Bobi Wine’s first presidential bid in the 2021 election saw him place second to Museveni. At 43 years old, he remains the main figurehead of Uganda’s opposition, advocating for change against Museveni’s long-standing rule of over four decades.

Bobi Wine’s nomination comes amid a politically charged atmosphere where opposition parties face challenges including the initial rejection of nomination signatures and disruptions to campaign rallies. His planned nomination rallies for supporters, including those at Katwe Playground and Natete, experienced some police cancellations, sparking criticism about limitations on his campaign efforts.

Controversies and Challenges

• The Electoral Commission initially claimed NUP did not submit enough signatures, creating uncertainty about Bobi Wine’s nomination.

• NUP Secretary General, David Lewis Rubongoya, accused the EC of political interference intended to delay and disrupt Bobi Wine’s nomination activities.

• Security agencies’ interference with planned nomination-day rallies has drawn condemnation from Bobi Wine’s camp.

Conclusion

Bobi Wine’s nomination on September 24 is a pivotal moment in Uganda’s political future. This step cements his role as the principal opposition candidate aiming to unseat Museveni. It also highlights the ongoing political tensions and challenges faced by opposition parties in Uganda’s electoral process.

This forthcoming nomination is not only a procedural milestone but also a symbol of resilience by Uganda’s opposition. Bobi Wine’s bid reflects the aspirations of many Ugandans seeking political transformation after decades of continuous leadership by the current regime.