Ms. Nancy Linda Kalembe, a former presidential candidate, has officially picked up nomination forms from the Electoral Commission, confirming her intention to run again in the 2026 presidential race.
Kalembe, the only woman who contested the presidency in 2021, is making a return to the political stage with a pledge to challenge the status quo and push for transformative leadership. Her previous campaign focused on poverty alleviation, job creation, and infrastructure development—issues she is expected to continue championing in her new bid.
In 2021, Kalembe garnered 38,772 votes (0.37% of the total), trailing behind incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, who secured more than six million votes, as well as other major contenders Robert Kyagulanyi and Patrick Amuriat. Despite the modest outcome, her candidacy was historic, marking the first time a woman had appeared on the presidential ballot in Uganda.
Her return underscores a commitment to advancing gender inclusion in politics and inspiring more women to take up leadership roles. Few women have contested Uganda’s highest office before her, among them Miria Matembe, Betty Kamya, and Maureen Kyalya.
Kalembe’s 2026 platform is expected to emphasize economic empowerment, education, and healthcare reforms, with a focus on equitable opportunities for ordinary Ugandans.
The upcoming election is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in Uganda’s history, with more than 120 individuals from diverse backgrounds already collecting nomination forms. Kalembe’s candidacy adds to the growing field of contenders and brings renewed attention to the role of women in shaping the country’s democratic future.
