In a landmark political move, Jimmy Michael Akena Obote, son of Uganda’s founding president Dr. Apollo Milton Obote, has officially picked up the presidential interest form from the Electoral Commission, signaling his intent to contest in the 2026 general elections.
The announcement was made earlier today during a formal delegation visit to the Electoral Commission headquarters in Kampala, led by Dr. Eunice Apio Otuku, Member of Parliament for Oyam North Constituency. A long-time advocate for Akena’s leadership, Dr. Apio reaffirmed the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) commitment to fielding a presidential candidate, marking a bold revival of the party’s national ambitions.
Today is a historic moment for our party and for Uganda. We believe in Jimmy Akena’s vision and leadership to bring transformative change
Dr. Eunice Apio
She passionately called upon the people of the Lango sub-region and the entire country to rally behind Akena in the 2026 elections, emphasizing his readiness to correct long-standing issues in education, healthcare, agriculture, and other critical sectors.
Akena is expected to return his completed nomination form on September to be officially confirmed as a presidential candidate.
Currently serving as UPC President, Akena has been on a nationwide consultative tour, reorganizing party structures and building grassroots support. His presidential ambitions were first declared during a rally in Kabale, where he was joined by key party figures including Fred Ebil, Michael Orach, Sarah Aguti (Dokolo Woman MP), and Dr. Apio Otuku.
This marks UPC’s return to the presidential race after more than a decade, with the last candidate being Olara Otunnu in 2011. Notably, Akena’s mother, Miria Kalule Obote, made history as the first woman to run for president in Uganda in 2006.
As the 2026 elections approach, Jimmy Akena Obote’s candidacy is poised to reshape Uganda’s political landscape, reigniting UPC’s legacy and offering a new vision for national renewal.
