Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni Wins Seventh Term amid Controversy and Opposition Rejection

Uganda’s long-serving President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has been declared the winner of the January 15, 2026 presidential election, securing a seventh term in office with 71.65 percent of the vote, according to official results released by the country’s Electoral Commission. 

The 81-year-old leader, in power since 1986, extends his over four decades of rule, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving presidents. His closest challenger, pop-star-turned-politician Robert ‘Bobi Wine’ Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, received 24.72 percent of the vote, official figures showed. 

Museveni’s victory was met with mixed reactions both domestically and internationally. Supporters took to the streets in Kampala to celebrate the result, while Wine rejected the outcome as fraudulent, describing the results as “fake” and calling on Ugandans to continue peaceful protests until the “rightful results” are recognized. 

The election period was marked by significant controversy. An internet blackout imposed nationwide ahead of voting drew widespread condemnation from rights groups and foreign observers, who said it hindered transparency and effective monitoring of the process. Social media platforms remain largely restricted even after partial restoration of connectivity. 

Wine alleged that security forces raided his home ahead of the final result announcement, forcing him to flee to an undisclosed location. While authorities denied detaining him, his family reportedly remained under movement restrictions. 

In the lead-up to voting, opposition rallies were repeatedly disrupted by security forces, and there were reports of violence, including arrests and deaths linked to election tensions. The United Nations and other observers criticized the environment as one of “repression and intimidation.” 

Despite criticism, Museveni defended the credibility of the process and framed his victory as a mandate to continue his leadership, citing stability and continuity as priorities for the nation. Political analysts note that changes to the constitution removing age and term limits have enabled Museveni to remain in power for decades, and speculation persists about future leadership dynamics within his ruling party. 

The election also saw a voter turnout of about 52.5 percent, one of the lowest since multiparty politics resumed in Uganda, reflecting the tense and polarized political atmosphere that shaped the contest.