Politics 14 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
UPC Proposes Strict Party Rules to Bar Rivals for Presidency
Internal disputes within the Uganda People's Congress (UPC) are prompting calls for constitutional amendments that would require aspiring party presidents to have served in top leadership roles for at least 10 years, a move seen as a bid to block potential rivals and stabilize the party. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/inside-akena-s-plan-to-block-rivals-from-upc-presidency-5496088
The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) is considering significant changes to its constitution aimed at quelling persistent leadership wrangles that have plagued the party. A proposal, discussed at a recent National Council meeting, suggests that any individual seeking the party’s presidency must have held a position within its top leadership structures for a minimum of 10 years.
This proposed amendment seeks to introduce stricter eligibility criteria beyond the current requirements of district support, national campaigning, and a Shs20 million nomination fee. UPC President Jimmy Akena articulated the need to close loopholes that, in his view, allow individuals with insufficient party commitment to challenge established leadership.
“We have been disorganised by this very unnecessary issue. We must address any constitutional hurdle which prevents the party from being effective,” Akena stated during the meeting. His deputy, Fahad Mutenderwa Kinyiri, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of ideological mentorship and established leadership experience within party ranks.
The proposed changes could directly impact prominent rivals of Akena, such as Dennis Enap Adim and Peter Walubiri, both of whom have previously challenged his leadership. Past electoral disputes, including disqualifications and court battles, have led to disruptions in the party’s internal processes and halted electoral activities.
Delegates also approved a motion empowering Akena to conduct nationwide consultations on leadership reforms, measures to prevent internal divisions, and potential collaborations with other political parties. The move toward tightening presidential eligibility aims to curb parallel leadership claims and ensure that party leadership is attained through established electoral procedures.
The proposed constitutional amendments will undergo further consultations before a final decision is made by the National Delegates’ Conference.