ISTANBUL

Uganda's long-time President Yoweri Museveni has signaled his interest in seeking another term in next year’s general elections.

Museveni, 80, one of the world’s longest-ruling leaders, and his ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party have been in power since 1986.

Uganda has undergone five phases of development since 1986, he said on X on Saturday, adding that the NRM now aims to grow the economy to a $500 billion GDP within five years.

Museveni said he urged newly elected NRM district chairs to remain impartial and avoid corruption.

The East African leader said he encouraged party members to back leaders “who truly understand” the NRM’s ideology and principles, warning against electing those “driven by personal agendas instead of focusing on the national interest.”

Uganda gained independence in October 1962 but descended into chaos with the infamous eight-year regime of dictator Idi Amin.

Amin was replaced by President Apollo Milton Obote in 1981, whom Museveni accused of cheating in elections and waged a guerilla war. After winning the war in 1986, Museveni became president.