President Yoweri Museveni, 81-year-old, on Saturday, January 17, secured a seventh term in Uganda’s 2026 presidential election, extending his rule into a fifth decade in office.
The electoral commission announced on Saturday that Museveni secured 71.65 per cent of the vote.
He defeated his main challenger, 43-year-old Bobi Wine, who garnered 24.72 per cent, according to the official results.
Museveni’s widely anticipated victory followed an election campaign that the United Nations (UN) said was marred by widespread repression and intimidation, including a crackdown on opposition rallies.
Thursday’s election also took place amid a nationwide internet blackout, which drew international criticism.
Bobi Wine, a singer-turned-politician whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, claimed on election day that massive ballot stuffing was taking place.
A spokesperson for his opposition party, the National Unity Platform, described the results as “a sham.”
Earlier in the day, Bobi Wine said he had escaped a police and army raid on his residence.
“Currently, I am not at home, although my wife and other family members remain under house arrest. I know these criminals are looking for me everywhere, and I am doing my best to stay safe,” Wine said.
Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, has been accused of overseeing a years-long crackdown on political opponents.
Despite this, many Ugandans continue to praise the longtime leader for ending post-independence instability and overseeing periods of economic growth.
Museveni’s victory had long been viewed as a formality, as the former rebel fighter is widely seen as having firm control over the state and security apparatus.
Since assuming office nearly four decades ago, he has amended the constitution twice to remove age and term limits.
His governing party, the National Resistance Movement, also holds a commanding lead in parliamentary seats, according to provisional results.
Comments