Despite their advanced age, some of Uganda’s longest-serving politicians are not ready to hand over the political baton. Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, 81, and Second Deputy Prime Minister Gen. Moses Ali, 86, have both declared intentions to seek re-election in the 2026 general elections.
Kasaija, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Buyanja County in Kibaale District, picked nomination forms from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) electoral commission offices in Kampala on Wednesday. He was quick to brush off suggestions that he should make way for younger politicians.
“Let the youth contest against me and I’ll beat them hands down. Next term, I will leave it for them—but not this one,” Kasaija asserted confidently.
“When I look at all my opponents, I don’t see anyone who can defeat me.”
A political heavyweight with decades of experience, Kasaija made it clear he still sees himself as the strongest candidate in the race.
Similarly, 86-year-old Gen. Moses Ali, who has served as MP for East Moyo County since 2011 and previously held top government positions dating back to Idi Amin’s regime, also picked up nomination forms to run for another term. His decision further underscores the firm grip senior politicians maintain on Uganda’s political landscape.
The reluctance of these veteran leaders to step aside has sparked renewed debate about youth participation in politics—a conversation that continues to gain momentum but sees little effect in actual power transition.
Meanwhile, Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua also picked nomination forms, praising the NRM for maintaining internal democracy.
“The NRM walks the talk in promoting democratic principles in Uganda,” he said.
The NRM party primaries are scheduled for July 16, 2025, and while many young aspirants may step forward, they will have to contend with giants who show no sign of stepping down willingly.
