Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has been sworn in for a seventh term, extending his nearly four-decade rule after winning the January 2026 presidential election.
The 81-year-old leader took the oath of office at a ceremony held at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, where thousands of supporters gathered to witness the event. Museveni has been in power since 1986, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
According to Uganda’s Electoral Commission, Museveni secured 71.65% of the vote, while opposition figure Bobi Wine (Robert Kyagulanyi) received 24.72%. Wine rejected the results, alleging widespread electoral fraud and ballot stuffing.
The election period was marked by reports of internet shutdowns, intimidation, arrests, and violence targeting opposition supporters. Human rights organizations accused security forces of intensifying crackdowns on opposition groups following the vote.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine also claimed he faced harassment during the campaign, including raids on his home and restrictions on his movement. His supporters reported killings and arrests during clashes with security forces, which authorities have disputed.
Museveni’s long rule has seen multiple constitutional changes, including the removal of presidential term limits and age restrictions, allowing him to remain in power.
While supporters credit him with stabilizing Uganda and driving economic growth, critics argue his leadership has increasingly become authoritarian.
Attention is now turning to succession planning, with speculation that Museveni’s son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, may be a potential future candidate.
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