Stephen Baka Mugabi, the Chairperson of the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee in Uganda, has reversed his initial decision to retire, opting instead to run for re-election in 2026 due to pressure from constituents. Despite others like Susan Amero and Michael Timuzigu reaffirming their retirement plans, the electoral contest is expected to be competitive, with numerous candidates preparing for nominations in September 2025.
In a noteworthy development in Ugandan politics, Stephen Baka Mugabi, Chairperson of the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, has announced his intention to run for re-election in the 2026 parliamentary race. This decision marks a significant reversal of his earlier announcement to retire from politics. Baka Mugabi cited substantial pressure from his constituents in Bukooli North, who have yet to find a suitable candidate among the 15 others vying for the position.
Mugabi explained, “The constituents are saying the area is not ready to lose an experienced legislator who has now been identified by the system.” Initially, he had planned to step down due to feeling undervalued and lacking a leadership role during the 8th Parliament. However, with his recent appointment as Chairperson of the Legal Committee, he now perceives his contributions as vital for the development of his region.
While Baka Mugabi’s announcement has garnered significant attention, it is worth noting that not all legislators have followed his change of heart. For instance, Susan Amero from Amuria and Michael Timuzigu from Kajara have reaffirmed their decisions to not seek re-election, emphasizing their dedication to their constituents. They advised fellow legislators reconsidering their decisions to heed the implications of such changes.
As the landscape for the 2026 parliamentary elections evolves, a competitive race is anticipated, with many candidates already positioned for various seats. The Electoral Commission has slated the nomination days for September 16 and 17, 2025, indicating that the election process is well underway.
In conclusion, the political landscape in Uganda is witnessing significant shifts as Baka Mugabi prepares to re-enter the race for the Bukooli North seat in 2026 due to public demand. His change of heart highlights the impact of constituent pressure and the importance of experienced leadership. Additionally, the decisions of other legislators to remain steadfast in their retirement reflect the diversity of responses to the upcoming elections, suggesting a dynamic electoral environment ahead.
Original Source: allafrica.com
