Uganda’s political story just took another familiar turn.
President Yoweri Museveni has secured a seventh term in office after winning the January 15, 2026 presidential election with a commanding 71.65 per cent of the vote, according to the country’s Electoral Commission.
The announcement on Saturday confirmed that Museveni, now 81, defeated his closest rival, musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who polled 24.72 per cent.
Electoral officials described the outcome as a clear national mandate, saying the process followed Uganda’s electoral guidelines.
But the result has not gone uncontested. Bobi Wine, 43, rejected the election, alleging intimidation and restrictions on his movement since voting ended. He claimed security operatives were targeting him, saying his family members were under house arrest while he remained in hiding for safety.
Museveni, who first came to power in 1986, has now ruled Uganda for nearly 40 years, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. His latest victory is already reigniting debate across the continent — including in Nigeria — about prolonged incumbency, opposition space, and the future of democracy in Africa.
One thing is certain: Uganda’s political conversation is far from over.
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