KAMPALA – In a result that extends one of Africa’s longest-running presidencies, Yoweri Museveni has been officially declared the winner of Uganda’s 2026 presidential election. The Electoral Commission (EC) announced on Saturday that the 81-year-old incumbent secured a seventh term in office, maintaining his 40-year grip on power.
According to final figures released by EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, Museveni garnered 71.65% of the total votes. His primary challenger, musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi (better known as Bobi Wine), finished a distant second with 24.72%.
BREAKING: Uganda’s electoral commission has confirmed that President Yoweri Museveni has been re-elected for a seventh term https://t.co/5MpePzQTlm
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A Seventh Term Secured
The victory ensures that Museveni, who seized power in 1986, will lead the East African nation for another five years. Supporters of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) took to the streets in pockets of the country to celebrate, citing “stability” and “continuity” as the primary reasons for the win.
However, the road to the 2026 victory was marked by significant controversy, including:
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Internet Shutdowns: A nationwide communications blackout was imposed days before the vote, which the government claimed was necessary to prevent misinformation.
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Technical Glitches: Widespread failure of biometric voter identification machines forced polling officials to revert to manual registers, particularly in urban opposition strongholds.
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Heavy Security Presence: Military and police deployments remained high throughout Kampala, with reports of “controlled access” surrounding the residence of Bobi Wine.
Opposition Rejects “Fake” Results
From an undisclosed location, Bobi Wine has vehemently rejected the outcome, labeling the figures “fake” and a “mockery of democracy.” The National Unity Platform (NUP) leader alleged massive ballot stuffing and the abduction of his polling agents, calling on his supporters to engage in peaceful protest.
“This was not an election; it was a military operation to subvert the will of the people,” a NUP spokesperson stated following the announcement.
Regional Implications
Museveni’s re-election is seen as a win for regional status quo. Under his tenure, Uganda has remained a key player in East African security and a major host for refugees. Analysts suggest that with oil production expected to ramp up in the coming years, Museveni’s focus will likely shift toward cementing his economic legacy while navigating the growing calls for a transition of power.
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