Finance Minister Matia Kasaija has declared that he will seek re-election in the 2026 general elections, marking what he says will be his final term in active politics. The long-serving politician, who has represented Buyanja County in Parliament for decades, made the announcement on Tuesday after collecting nomination forms from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party headquarters in Kampala.

Now in his late seventies, Kasaija expressed confidence that he would win again, dismissing any concerns about potential challengers. He told reporters that none of those eyeing his seat could serve the people of Buyanja better than he has. “I dare anyone to come and challenge me in the 2026 elections—let them come, but they should know I will defeat them,” he said. However, he made it clear that this would be his last attempt. “After this, I will not return to politics. I will retire peacefully, go back to my farm, look after my cattle, and enjoy drinking milk,” he added with a smile.

Kasaija is one of Uganda’s most enduring political figures, having served in various high-ranking government positions since the 1980s. A trusted ally of President Yoweri Museveni, he joined the Cabinet in the early years of the NRM government and has been the Finance Minister since 2015. During his tenure, he has overseen major economic reforms, tax policy changes, and budget strategies aimed at boosting infrastructure and increasing government revenue. However, his leadership has also faced criticism as Uganda’s public debt continues to rise and economic inequality widens.

His political journey stretches back to 1980 when he first entered Parliament, making him one of the few remaining politicians who bridge the pre- and post-NRM eras. Over the years, he has maintained a firm grip on Buyanja County’s politics, becoming a dominant figure in Kibaale District. Despite murmurs of new challengers emerging, Kasaija appeared unshaken, confidently stating that he remains the best choice for his constituents.

His announcement is expected to stir political discussions in Kibaale, particularly among younger NRM members who have been waiting for an opportunity to contest the seat. While his decision to step down after 2026 may be seen as a move toward generational change, his choice to run one last time could also attract criticism from those pushing for fresh leadership. In recent years, there has been growing pressure across Uganda for long-serving politicians to make way for younger leaders, and Kasaija’s final bid may reignite that debate.

The 2026 elections will be another test for the NRM’s internal democracy, with veteran lawmakers like Kasaija facing both party primaries and public scrutiny over their continued hold on power. For now, however, the Finance Minister seems determined to end his political career on his own terms—one last term in office, followed by a quiet retirement on his farm, surrounded by his cattle and, as he put it, plenty of fresh milk.

As the race for 2026 begins to take shape, Kasaija’s declaration sets the stage for what could be a highly contested election in Buyanja County. Whether his confidence in victory holds or a new challenger emerges as a formidable opponent remains to be seen. But one thing is certain—after more than four decades in politics, Kasaija is preparing to write the final chapter of his long and influential career.