By Our Reporter
Second Deputy Prime Minister and long-serving Ugandan statesman Gen. Moses Ali has officially expressed his intention to contest again in the 2026 general elections. On Tuesday, the 85-year-old veteran politician picked nomination forms from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Commission offices in Kyadondo, reaffirming his bid to retain the Adjumani West parliamentary seat.
Gen. Ali, one of the most enduring figures in Uganda’s political and military landscape, has held the Adjumani West seat for several terms and remains a towering presence in both local and national politics. Over the decades, he has served in various high-level government positions, including as Deputy Prime Minister and in multiple ministerial roles under the ruling NRM government.
Generational Debate Rekindled
Gen. Ali’s decision to seek reelection has reignited national debate about leadership renewal, retirement, and generational change in Ugandan politics. While his supporters argue that his long experience and service-oriented leadership continue to benefit his constituency, critics—particularly younger Ugandans—are questioning whether it’s time for older leaders to step aside and pave the way for a new generation.
“Uganda needs fresh energy, new ideas, and leaders who understand the challenges of today,” said one young voter from Adjumani. “It’s not just about age—it’s about relevance.”
On the other hand, residents who back Gen. Ali cite his deep understanding of the region, extensive networks, and ability to bring development projects to Adjumani as key reasons to retain him. “He’s dependable and always delivers. He knows our problems and speaks with authority in Parliament,” said a local elder.
NRM Candidate Nomination Season Underway
Gen. Ali is among dozens of aspiring NRM candidates participating in the party’s ongoing internal nomination process, which officially opened on June 3, 2025. The NRM Electoral Commission, chaired by Dr. Tanga Odoi, began issuing nomination forms at its Kyadondo headquarters as part of preparations for the 2026 elections.
The nomination period, expected to run for several weeks, is part of the NRM’s elaborate roadmap that will include internal party primaries to select flag bearers for presidential, parliamentary, and local government positions. The process typically draws intense interest from both incumbents and new entrants looking to represent Uganda’s dominant political party.
Dr. Tanga Odoi emphasized transparency and strict adherence to party guidelines during this year’s nomination exercise. “We encourage all party members to follow the laid-down procedures. The NRM is committed to conducting free and fair internal elections,” he told reporters.
The Electoral Commission has also urged aspirants to avoid premature campaigning and instead focus on building support within the party structures before official campaigning begins.
As the NRM gears up for its internal primaries and as the national political climate begins to heat up, Gen. Moses Ali’s candidacy symbolizes both continuity and controversy. While some see him as a stabilizing figure with unmatched experience, others view his re-entry into the race as a missed opportunity for generational change.
The broader debate over retirement age, term limits, and youth representation is likely to continue shaping the political discourse ahead of the 2026 general elections, not just in Adjumani but across Uganda.