Munyagwa unveils Common Man’s Party, vows to take on Museveni in 2026 presidential bid

Kampala, Uganda: Former Kawempe South Member of Parliament Hon. Mubarak Munyagwa Sserunga has officially launched the Common Man’s Party (CMP) and declared his intention to contest for the presidency in the 2026 general elections.

The announcement, made on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Jacaranda Gardens in Rubaga, saw Munyagwa unveiled as the founding President of the newly rebranded political formation, previously known as the Uganda Economic Party.

The party also unveiled its official symbol, a silver platter, which Munyagwa said was carefully chosen to represent fairness, dignity, and equitable access to national resources for all Ugandans, regardless of social class.

“We believe every Ugandan deserves a seat at the table of opportunity. Our logo, the silver platter, represents a future where resources are shared with the common man, not reserved for a privileged few,” Munyagwa told party delegates on the afternoon.

The former FDC senior cadre likened his leadership journey to that of Moses, the biblical figure who led the Israelites to the Promised Land, and said Uganda was entering a pivotal era of political transformation.

“A new chapter in this country’s history has begun. History has a way of repeating itself. The people have anointed me to liberate the common man, just like the children of Israel anointed Moses,” he said. “Moses was doubted by many—just like I am today—but what we share is unwavering determination. A new era is unfolding; only the typist is slowing us down now.”

Reflecting on his political journey, Munyagwa noted that he has spent more than 25 years in activism, starting from his days in the Red-Top Brigade, advocating for social justice and economic fairness.

“More than half my life has been dedicated to the liberation of the common man. From my early days in the Red-Top Brigade, I’ve stood on the frontlines for a cause where every Ugandan counts,” he said.

The ex-legislator further launched a scathing critique of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), branding it a “tormentor of the common citizen”, while also taking a swipe at fragmented opposition forces.

“Ironically, while the NRM is crumbling, the opposition is also in disarray. Instead of uniting, we are fighting one another. CMP is not here to fight any group but to strengthen the long-standing struggle for real change.”

At the unveiled ceremony, the party also named Gen. Moses Bigirwa, a former National Unity Platform (NUP) mobiliser for Eastern Uganda, as Secretary General. “In 2023, I vowed never again to be led by civilians who lack the capacity to lead a revolution,” Bigirwa said in his remarks.

“I have served under many who failed to deliver. That’s why I’ve joined forces with Field Marshal Munyagwa, a true man of the people. I now commit to championing the issues of the common man, long ignored by both the government and the opposition.”

Bigirwa emphasized that the CMP’s silver platter symbol reflects inclusivity, unity, and shared national responsibility. “Every Ugandan deserves a share of the national cake. That’s the message we’re sending.”

Roadmap to 2026

Munyagwa announced a nationwide mobilization campaign and grassroots structure rollout to prepare for the 2026 general elections. They aim to field candidates from village to national level, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of everyday Ugandans.

He also unveiled an interim national leadership structure, drawing representatives from all regions, which includes;

CMP now joins a growing list of new political formations vying to make an impact in Uganda’s 2026 electoral cycle, in what is expected to be the most contested election in the country’s history.

Several new political formations have emerged in recent months, adding further complexity to an already fragmented opposition landscape. Just recently, musician Stecia Mayanja declared her bid to vie for the Presidency under the Peasants’ Party, which she was elected President of.

Whether CMP will gather enough traction to become a serious contender remains uncertain, but Munyagwa’s move has already shaken Uganda’s opposition circles as fresh battle lines are drawn ahead of 2026.