In an unexpected political move, a 30-year-old boda boda rider has announced his bid to challenge President Yoweri Museveni in the 2026 elections. Francis Mawejje, a graduate of international relations and diplomacy from Cavendish University, declared his presidential ambitions on Monday, positioning himself as a voice for Uganda’s struggling working class.

Speaking to journalists, Mawejje framed his campaign as a fight to “liberate the country” from economic hardship and poor governance. He argued that Uganda’s economy is largely a “boda boda economy,” meaning most citizens survive on meager daily earnings without financial security. “People leave their homes not knowing if they will make any money that day,” he said. “Six people share one shop, yet at the end of the month, they still can’t afford rent.”

Mawejje, who has firsthand experience as a motorcycle taxi rider, highlighted the struggles of ordinary Ugandans—lack of insurance, poor healthcare, and low wages. “If someone gets into an accident, they suffer for months with no government support,” he said. “We earn too little to save, and there’s no safety net for us.” He described Uganda’s economy as one that appears to be growing but leaves most people drowning in debt.

The young aspirant said his decision to run stems from the urgent need for change. He criticized the government for failing to provide basic services, pointing out the lack of medicine in hospitals, poor road conditions, and underpaid civil servants. “Police and army officers sleep in run-down buildings, roads are terrible, and workers are paid peanuts despite their contributions to the nation,” he said. “This must change.”

Mawejje unveiled a seven-point agenda that he believes will transform Uganda if he is elected. His key proposals include tackling unemployment, improving healthcare and education, and streamlining government agencies to cut waste. He also promised to introduce a mandatory insurance scheme for boda boda riders, upgrade emergency medical services, and ensure hospitals are fully stocked with medicines.

Additionally, he pledged to push for constitutional reforms to reduce presidential powers, allow Ugandans abroad and prisoners to vote, and fight corruption. “After nearly 40 years under the NRM regime, it’s time for liberation,” Mawejje declared. “I am Uganda’s liberator.”

While Mawejje’s campaign resonates with many struggling Ugandans, he faces an uphill battle against Museveni, who has ruled the country since 1986. The president’s National Resistance Movement (NRM) has a firm grip on power, and past opposition candidates have struggled to make significant electoral gains.

However, Mawejje’s grassroots background and focus on economic struggles could attract support from frustrated voters, particularly the youth and boda boda riders, who form a large part of Uganda’s informal workforce. His message taps into widespread dissatisfaction with unemployment, corruption, and poor public services.

Political analysts remain skeptical about his chances but acknowledge that his campaign could amplify the voices of marginalized citizens. “It’s unlikely he will win, but his candidacy could pressure the government to address some of these issues,” said one commentator.

What’s Next?

As Mawejje begins his campaign, the big question is whether he can gather enough momentum to challenge the political establishment. With no major party backing, he will rely on public support and grassroots mobilization. His success will depend on his ability to connect with voters beyond the boda boda community and present a viable alternative to the current leadership.

For now, his bold declaration has sparked conversations about representation, economic justice, and the need for fresh leadership in Uganda. Whether or not he wins, his campaign may force the political elite to take notice of the frustrations of ordinary citizens.

As the 2026 elections approach, all eyes will be on whether Mawejje’s message gains traction—or if Uganda’s political landscape remains unchanged. One thing is certain: his candidacy has already added an unexpected twist to the race.