About 800 delegates of Uganda’s opposition Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) have extended the term of party president Jimmy Akena during a controversial Extra-Ordinary Delegates Conference held in defiance of a High Court order.
The hybrid event, conducted both physically in Nalya-Kira, Wakiso District and virtually, took place just a day after the court issued an injunction halting it. Delegates voted to suspend key provisions of the party constitution—specifically Articles 25.2 and 25.3—which outline procedures for constitutional amendments. The move paves the way for Akena to remain in office for an additional 12 months and prepare for a 2026 presidential bid.
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In a statement issued after the conference, Akena said the UPC constitution was amended to align with Article 105 of Uganda’s national constitution, which deals with presidential term limits.
“The Extra-Ordinary Delegates Conference extended the term of office of the UPC President Hon. Akena James Michael Jimmy for twelve (12) months effective today, 26th July, 2025 to enable him and his Party Cabinet organise and oversee the conduct of party structure and national elections,” the statement said.
Akena also reaffirmed UPC’s continued participation in the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD), pledging to engage with other political parties in accordance with Uganda’s Political Parties and Organisations Act.
The extension comes amid an ongoing leadership crisis within UPC, involving rival claimants Dennis Adim Enap and Peter Mukidi Walubiri. The High Court had previously barred Akena from seeking a third term, following a legal challenge by Enap. However, Enap was later disqualified by the party’s Electoral Commission for alleged breaches of the party’s electoral guidelines, including prematurely declaring himself president.
Walubiri, meanwhile, has petitioned Uganda’s Electoral Commission, asserting that he remains the legitimate leader of the party.
Justice Joyce Kavuma, who issued the July 25 injunction, had urged the party to postpone the conference until July 29, when a ruling on Akena’s legitimacy is expected. Despite this, Akena proceeded with the event, later thanking delegates for their support.
“I am indebted to the about 800 delegates who attended both physically and virtually… despite all the challenges we faced in concluding this important event,” Akena said.
Earlier in the week, the Lira East MP reiterated his intentions to run for president in 2026, brushing aside legal obstacles.
“They might restrict me, but they will not stop me,” he said. “I will not be a bystander. This is my country. I don’t need permission from anyone. 2026 is not going to be business as usual.”
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