Ugandan MP General Moses Ali has secured another term to represent Adjumani West Constituency in parliament, overcoming widespread debate over his age and health.
At 86 and visibly frail, Ali emerged victorious in the January 15, 2026, general elections, continuing a political career that began in the late 1960s.
His re-election followed endorsement by President Yoweri Museveni in October 2025, a move that reignited national discussions about whether the veteran politician remained physically fit for office.
During the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries, Ali comfortably retained the party ticket with 8,609 votes, defeating his closest challenger, who secured 4,492 votes, demonstrating his enduring influence within the party despite criticism from civil society.
Concerns over Ali’s suitability for office led activists and a human rights defender to file a petition at the Constitutional Court to block his nomination, citing his advanced age and declining health. The legal challenge, however, did not prevent him from contesting or ultimately winning the seat.
Supporters dismissed the criticism, framing the election as a symbolic final chapter in the career of a leader they say has dedicated his life to Uganda’s liberation and development. They argued that Ali’s historical contributions and consistent service to Adjumani West outweighed concerns about his physical condition.
In the final results announced by Adjumani District Electoral Commission registrar Christine Acai, Ali received 12,854 votes, narrowly defeating Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) candidate Patrick Tandrupasi, who garnered 11,770 votes.
Independent Gasper Draga trailed with 522 votes, while National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Stephen Lyo received 293 votes.
Throughout his campaign, Ali focused on development promises, including upgrading health facilities, constructing the Laropi bridge across the River Nile, expanding access to clean water and electricity, and improving key roads in the constituency.
First elected as Adjumani West MP in 2011, Moses Ali has successfully defended the seat in successive elections.
While his victory underscores his political resilience, it raises questions about leadership succession and representation in Uganda’s aging political class.