Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has been declared winner of the country’s 2026 presidential election, extending his rule to a seventh term after a vote overshadowed by violence, arrests and an internet shutdown.
According to the Electoral Commission, the 81-year-old leader secured 71.65 per cent of the votes cast in Thursday’s poll, defeating his closest challenger, opposition figure Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who garnered 24.72 per cent.
Museveni’s victory further consolidates his grip on power, marking nearly four decades since he took control of the East African nation in 1986.
Provisional parliamentary results also showed his National Resistance Movement maintaining a dominant position in the legislature.
The election, however, was marred by reports of intimidation, abductions and deaths linked to the political process.
Rights groups and African election observers raised concerns that the actions of security agencies created a climate of fear and weakened public confidence in the polls.
Bobi Wine rejected the outcome, describing the results as fraudulent.
He said he was forced into hiding after security forces allegedly raided his home, although police denied carrying out an arrest, saying officers were only restricting access in areas considered security risks.
A heavy security presence was observed across Kampala as authorities sought to prevent post-election protests.
Residents near opposition strongholds reported heightened tension, with many staying indoors out of fear.
African Union and regional observers acknowledged that voting day itself was largely calm but criticised reports of intimidation and the shutdown of internet services, which they said hindered transparency and effective monitoring of the process.
Despite accusations of ballot manipulation by the opposition, observers said they did not find direct evidence of widespread rigging, though they condemned actions that undermined trust in the electoral system.
Museveni’s long rule has been characterised by firm control of state institutions and security forces, with opposition leaders frequently facing arrests and prosecutions.
