Amanze Chinonye
Uganda’s Electoral Commission has officially declared President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni the winner of the country’s 2026 presidential election, confirming his seventh term in office after nearly four decades in power, Prime Business Africa reports.
According to the final results announced on Saturday, Museveni secured about 71.6 per cent of the total votes cast, defeating his closest challenger, opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who garnered approximately 24.7 per cent. Other candidates shared the remaining votes.
The election, held on 15 January 2026, was conducted amid heavy security deployment, an internet shutdown, and reported logistical challenges at several polling centres. Despite these concerns, the Electoral Commission said the process met constitutional requirements and reflected the will of the electorate.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelMuseveni, 81, has ruled Uganda since 1986, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. His continued stay in office has been enabled by constitutional amendments that removed both presidential term limits and age restrictions.
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Opposition Rejects Results
Bobi Wine and his National Unity Platform (NUP) swiftly rejected the outcome, describing the election as neither free nor fair. The opposition cited alleged ballot stuffing, voter intimidation, arrests of party agents, and the presence of security forces at polling and tallying centres.
Before the declaration, Wine claimed that security operatives raided or surrounded his residence, a development authorities have denied, saying any deployment was aimed at maintaining public order.
Wine has urged supporters to remain peaceful while exploring legal and constitutional options to challenge the results.
Regional and Continental Reactions
The African Union Commission welcomed the conclusion of the electoral process, with its Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, congratulating Museveni on his re-election and commending Ugandans for participating in the polls. The AU also praised former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan for leading the joint AU–COMESA–IGAD election observation mission.
However, international rights groups and some observer organisations have raised concerns about the pre-election environment, particularly restrictions on the internet and political activities.
Security Concerns Persist
The post-election period has been tense, with reports of isolated violence in parts of the country. Earlier reports indicated that several people were killed in clashes following the vote, though authorities and witnesses have given differing accounts.
With the final results now declared, attention is expected to shift to possible legal challenges, opposition mobilisation, and the broader implications of Museveni’s extended rule for Uganda’s political future.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
