Speculation over Uganda’s 2026 elections has taken a new twist after false posters circulated on social media suggesting that First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga was preparing a presidential bid. Her office has now dismissed the claims as deliberate misinformation.
A statement from her press secretary clarified that Kadaga is not seeking the presidency and remains focused on defending her Kamuli Woman MP seat. The message accused political actors of spreading fake campaign posters to mislead the public and stir unnecessary debate.
This is not the first time Kadaga’s name has been dragged into succession talk. During her time as Speaker of Parliament, rumours regularly surfaced that she was building ambition beyond Parliament. But insiders note that she has consistently avoided challenging President Museveni, who after four decades in power continues to dominate the ruling party and the national political scene.
Observers say the uproar highlights the growing tension around Uganda’s succession debate, even though President Museveni has already confirmed he will seek another term in 2026. History shows that those within the ruling Movement who have tried to challenge him openly have failed. The most striking case was former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi, once among the most powerful figures in government, whose 2016 presidential bid against Museveni left him politically isolated, stripped of his senior positions, and defeated at the polls.
Analysts argue that Kadaga, a seasoned operator, understands these realities. Unlike Mbabazi, she has chosen to reinforce her base in Kamuli and concentrate on regional duties in the East African Community docket rather than risk being sidelined. Her quick denial of the presidential rumours underscores that calculation.
While succession debates continue to shape Uganda’s political atmosphere, the ruling establishment remains tightly controlled. Those speculating on Kadaga’s intentions may have hoped to spark divisions, but her response signals she is not prepared to be cast as Museveni’s challenger. For now, she remains in the safe lane, consolidating her long-standing parliamentary seat and government portfolio.
