Mao Predicts PLU Dominance in 2026 Elections, Calls for Sanitized Politics

Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao has forecasted that the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) will emerge as a dominant force in the 2026 elections, potentially reshaping the political landscape. In an interview with TV10 gano mazima, Mao noted that PLU, led by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, will likely dominate both the presidential and parliamentary contests.

Mao, also the president-general of the Democratic Party (DP), expressed concerns about the opposition’s ability to mount a strong challenge against President Yoweri Museveni’s National Resistance Movement (NRM). He emphasized the need for “sanitized politics” and an end to the “politics of ‘I must follow you’”.

Mao highlighted the rise of PLU as a significant trend, comparing it to the Tea Party movement in the US Republican Party. He predicted that PLU-leaning candidates will challenge NRM’s favored candidates in the primaries and general elections.

The minister also discussed his own political future, reiterating his commitment to presidential ambitions and dismissing speculation about his potential parliamentary candidacy.

Mao emphasized the importance of electoral reforms and cooperation among political parties, citing the DP’s cooperation agreement with NRM as a step towards a more inclusive political landscape.

As Uganda approaches the 2026 elections, Mao’s predictions and calls for sanitized politics have sparked attention, highlighting the complex dynamics shaping the country’s political future.