Yoweri Museveni was officially sworn in for a seventh presidential term during a formal ceremony in Kampala, extending his rule to four decades and reinforcing his position as one of the world’s longest-serving non-royal leaders.
The ceremony took place at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in the presence of regional heads of state, diplomats, military officials, and thousands of supporters, under tight security amid concerns over possible opposition activity. Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo administered the oath, marking the start of a new five-year term running until May 2031.
In his speech, Museveni pledged to continue pursuing economic transformation, industrialization, infrastructure development, and regional integration in East Africa. He also criticized what he described as foreign interference in domestic affairs, reaffirming his government’s commitment to sovereignty and stability.
According to official results, Museveni secured 7,946,772 votes, representing 71.65 percent of ballots cast in the January 15, 2026 election.
His main challenger, Robert Kyagulanyi, received 2,741,238 votes, or 24.72 percent, while other candidates secured significantly smaller shares.
Voter turnout stood at approximately 52.5 percent of more than 21 million registered voters. Analysts noted that this marked the first time since 1996 that Museveni surpassed the 70 percent threshold.
Kyagulanyi rejected the results, alleging widespread irregularities including ballot manipulation and failures in voter verification systems in opposition strongholds.
The election period also saw internet restrictions and measures targeting opposition figures, while international organizations raised concerns about political freedoms, assembly rights, and media operations.
Critics argue that constitutional amendments introduced during Museveni’s tenure reshaped the political landscape, including the removal of presidential term limits in 2005 and the abolition of the age cap in a later amendment.
During the ceremony, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the president’s son and army commander, played a visible role, fueling speculation about succession.
Analysts say his rising profile strengthens expectations of a future transition, though no official plan has been announced.
If Museveni completes this term, he will have ruled Uganda for up to 45 years.
