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PoliticsAfrica

Five key African elections to watch in 2026

January 15, 2026

This year, several African countries will hold major elections, ranging from presidential to parliamentary. Here are five important 2026 contests you should know about.

https://p.dw.com/p/56tmn

Uganda's election falls on January 15. Longtime leader Yoweri Museveni is hoping for another term in office. 

Next up is the Republic of Congo on March 22. In the oil-rich country, President Denis Sassou Nguesso’s Congolese Labor Party (PCT) has ruled for decades. 

In April, Benin will hold elections. The West African country is still coming to terms with an attempted coup on December 7, 2025.

Then, in June, Ethiopian voters go to the polls. This election would take place amid political and social upheaval. The country is still healing from the conflict between the Tigray People's Liberation Front and the national government.

December 5 is an important date for Gambians. The presidential election will determine if incumbent Adama Barrow can secure a third term. 

DW's Editor Michael Oti
Michael Oti Author, Presenter and Editor at DW's Programs for Africa
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