By BM
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) today officially launched President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s campaign portrait and theme for the 2026 General Elections, setting social media platforms ablaze with excitement, satire, and skepticism.
Held at the NRM headquarters on Plot 10 Kyadondo Road in Nakasero, the unveiling marked the symbolic start of the ruling party’s re-election bid under the theme “Protecting the Gains as We Make a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status.”
The portrait, which presents Museveni in a refreshed and slightly stylized look, was introduced alongside a message of continuity and transformation.
According to NRM Secretary General Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, the slogan reflects the party’s intention to safeguard past achievements while pushing Uganda toward a new phase of economic growth.
“We are consolidating what we’ve achieved and preparing the country for a leap forward. This is not just about winning an election; it’s about securing Uganda’s future,” he said during the launch.
Alhajj Moses Kigongo, the party’s First Vice Chairperson, urged members to maintain unity and discipline, warning against attempts to use culture or identity to divide the party.
He called on NRM supporters to begin mobilizing votes for all party flag bearers from the president to the grassroots. “If you have nothing constructive to say, it is better to keep quiet,” Kigongo cautioned, in a clear message to party detractors.
Despite the official tone of the event, the internet was already abuzz with mixed reactions from Ugandans across different social media platforms.
The portrait, which many noted appeared digitally enhanced, quickly became a trending topic, with users responding in both admiration and amusement.
On the Daily Monitor Facebook page, Richard Erema commented, “Doing all his work, the team might have reinvented him afresh,” suggesting a rejuvenated look for the president.
George Cheterere added, “He is waiting to swear in,” implying confidence in Museveni’s victory. Eric Ziponi Avambo echoed the official slogan, writing, “Protecting the gains indeed,” while Ron Ki took a more humorous tone: “Electoral Commission should reject filters. This is the natural look.”
Others questioned whether the image truly reflects the reality of Uganda’s leadership. Mitango Abubaker simply wrote, “That is great news indeed… Congratulations,” while Alioni Rackon referenced an earlier image of the president: “There is that photo which was taken by a Kenyan journalist during his last visit to Nairobi.”
In a more strategic observation, Georgewilliam Kalibbala commented, “Competitive advantage: no candidate will have a name starting with Y — the guy will be at the bottom of the ballot, easy for his fans to elect him. Museveni’s team is wise. He has now dropped Tibuhaburwa because someone might appear on the ballot with a name starting with T.”
On the NRM’s own Facebook page, Wanzu Sirai from Iganga, identifying himself as a Team YKMT cadre, wrote, “I’m waiting for the picture of the President now.” Yet not all feedback was celebratory. Ndugwa Shafiq asked pointedly, “Don’t we have any other candidate to contest for that seat in NRM sincerely?”
NBStv’s Facebook post also drew a blend of humor and devotion. Stephen Aisu wrote, “Hope they are not using the picture he took in 2001,” while Catherine Gumosiime declared, “NRM oyee, Long live Jajja Tibs!” Lampard Richard added, “I’m waiting for Jajja baby.”
While the moment may have been designed as a serious rallying point for the party, political analysts suggest it reflects broader challenges. “This isn’t just about a photo,” said Kampala-based analyst Harriet Nabukeera. “It’s about how the NRM continues to sell the same candidate in a shifting political and generational landscape.”
As the campaign season begins, it is clear that the portrait and slogan have already done their job: sparking conversation. Whether hailed as a symbol of legacy or critiqued as a recycled image of power, Museveni’s 2026 campaign has landed — and Ugandans are watching closely.
