In her speech at the centenary celebrations held at Rushoroza Parish Cathedral in Kabale district on January 7, 2024, Vice President Hon Rtd Maj. Jessica Alupo reaffirmed that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni will be running as a candidate in the 2026 Presidential elections.

Under the theme “Stir into Flame the Gift of God That You Have,” derived from 2 Timothy 1:6, the event was led by The Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, His Excellency Archbishop Luigi Bianco.

Representing President Museveni as the chief guest, VP Alupo quashed speculations and urged the nation to remain calm regarding the President’s potential candidacy for the upcoming elections.

“I have already mobilised the Eastern region, urging them to stay calm and be assured that Gen Yoweri Museveni is going to return in 2026,” assured VP Alupo during her speech.

VP Alupo delivering the President’s message during the centenary celebrations at Rushoroza Parish Cathedral in Kabale district

VP Alupo delivering the President’s message during the centenary celebrations at Rushoroza Parish Cathedral in Kabale district

The Vice President’s statements come after President Museveni declined to comment on the matter during his recent end-of-year meeting with journalists at State House Entebbe. When questioned about his plans for the 2026 elections, the President simply stated, “We shall talk about that one at the right time.”

President Museveni, known for his efforts in public service and nation-building, delivered a written message at the celebratory event, encouraging the Christian community to emulate the teachings and deeds of Jesus Christ in their pursuit of social and economic development.

“The scriptures show that besides fasting and prayer, Jesus also healed the physical ailments of the lame and the blind. He worked tirelessly for both the spiritual and socioeconomic upliftment of his society. This is what all Christians must emulate,” stated President Museveni.

In addition to his inspirational words, President Museveni made a personal contribution of UGX 50 million towards the development of the Parish. The event attracted significant donations from politicians, government officials, businessmen of Kabale, and well-wishers alike.

Prominent figures in attendance included Vice President Hon. Jessica Alupo, Henry Musasizi, the State Minister for Finance (General Duties), the Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, MP for Kabale Municipality Nicholas Kamara, Catherine Ndamira (woman MP for Kabale District), Alex Niyonsaba Sseruganda (MP for Bufumbira South), and Wilfred Niwagaba (MP for Ndorwa East), among others.

As the nation eagerly waits for the 2026 elections, assurances from the Vice President provide some clarity on President Museveni’s intentions.

With his extensive experience and vision for Uganda’s future, his potential candidacy is expected to generate immense interest and further political discourse in the months and years to come.