By Bazio Doreen.

Adjumani, Uganda | 2026 General Elections

General Moses Ali’s re-election as Member of Parliament for Adjumani West Constituency in Uganda’s 2026 general elections has once again placed one of the country’s most enduring political figures at the centre of national conversation.

At 86 years old, the veteran politician and former military commander secured another parliamentary term under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) banner, extending a career that has spanned decades of Uganda’s political and military history. His victory, while celebrated by supporters in West Nile, has also reignited debate about leadership longevity, generational transition, and representation in Uganda’s democratic space.

A Campaign Watched Nationwide

Few constituency races in the 2026 elections attracted as much attention as Adjumani West. Gen. Ali’s candidacy drew national scrutiny amid public discussion about age, health, and capacity to serve. Legal and civic debates unfolded during the pre-election period, with some questioning whether elderly leaders should continue to occupy elective office.

Despite the controversy, voters in Adjumani West returned Gen. Ali to Parliament, underscoring the strong local support he continues to command. Analysts note that the outcome reflects a recurring pattern in Ugandan politics, where personal legacy, name recognition, and perceived access to state power often shape electoral choices at constituency level.

Why Voters Chose Continuity

On the campaign trail, Gen. Ali centered his message on development and service delivery. Roads, access to clean water, health facilities, and rural electrification featured prominently in his engagements with voters. For many residents, these tangible concerns outweighed broader national debates about age and political renewal.

Community leaders and supporters argue that Gen. Ali’s seniority within government has historically enabled him to advocate effectively for resources in Adjumani and the wider West Nile region. To them, continuity represents stability and leverage rather than stagnation. For many voters, experience still matters more than symbolism. Many people voted for who they believe can deliver.

A Political Career Rooted in History

General Moses Ali’s public life predates Uganda’s current political era. He has served in senior military roles and held high-level government positions, including 2^nd Deputy Prime Minister, making him one of the few figures whose influence stretches across multiple political generations.

His long-standing relationship with the ruling establishment has cemented his position as a key power broker in northern Uganda. For supporters, this history translates into trust and familiarity; for critics, it represents the entrenchment of political elites.

Mixed Reactions beyond Adjumani

Nationally, reactions to Gen. Ali’s re-election have been mixed. Civil society actors and youth leaders have pointed to his victory as evidence of the slow pace of generational transition in Ugandan politics. They argue that the continued dominance of long-serving leaders limits opportunities for younger candidates and fresh ideas.

At the same time, governance analysts caution against framing the issue purely in terms of age. They note that democratic choice ultimately rests with voters — and that any meaningful shift toward renewal must be driven by stronger grassroots organization, credible alternatives, and internal party reforms.

Implications for Civic Engagement

For civic organizations and development actors, the Adjumani West result highlights the importance of local context in electoral politics. While national narratives often focus on reform and transition, community-level priorities — service delivery, visibility, and perceived influence — frequently determine outcomes.

Gen. Ali’s re-election also raises important questions about representation, accountability, and succession planning within long-held political strongholds. As Uganda continues to grapple with questions of democratic deepening, such constituencies offer critical lessons for civic education and voter engagement efforts.

Looking Ahead

As he begins another term in Parliament, expectations remain high for Gen. Moses Ali to translate experience into measurable outcomes for his constituents. Whether his renewed mandate will strengthen development efforts in Adjumani West — or further fuel national debates on political renewal — remains to be seen.

What is clear is that the 2026 elections have once again affirmed his enduring presence in Uganda’s political landscape, and the complex realities that shape voter choice beyond headlines and hashtags.

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