As the world ushers in 2026, Africa enters a defining political year. The close of 2025 was marked by the return of ruling parties in several states, alongside the continued persistence of military coups across the continent. In 2026, Africa’s democratic institutions will again be tested as multiple countries head to the polls.

The year begins with Uganda, which goes to elections in January. President Yoweri Museveni is seeking a seventh term, extending a rule that has spanned four decades. The election has already drawn concern following crackdowns on opposition figures, including Bobi Wine and Kizza Besigye, Museveni’s former personal doctor during the guerrilla struggle. Among the contenders is also one of Uganda’s longest-serving parliamentarians, Gen. Ali.

In the Horn of Africa, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s Prosperity Party is widely expected to retain its parliamentary majority in Ethiopia’s elections, despite ongoing unrest in the Amhara and Oromia regions. Key issues shaping the polls include unemployment, security, and control of the River Nile.

The Gambia will hold elections on 5 December, with President Adama Barrow expected to seek a third term, as the country’s constitution does not impose term limits.

In Southern Africa, Zambia will conduct general elections for both the presidency and the National Assembly. President Hakainde Hichilema is expected to face a challenge from the Patriotic Front.

South Africa is preparing for local government elections across all 213 municipalities, seen as a critical test for the ruling ANC following its electoral decline in 2024 and its participation in a Government of National Unity. The party is also confronting possible vote splits, with alliance partner SACP announcing its intention to contest independently.

Other African countries scheduled to hold elections in 2026 include South Sudan, Benin, Congo Republic, Cape Verde, Algeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Djibouti, while Kenya and Lesotho will be gearing up for their 2027 polls.

As the continent navigates another election-heavy year, the balance between democratic consolidation, political stability, and citizen expectations will remain firmly under the spotlight.