Museveni Will Now Extend Rule to 45 Years after Landslide Victory

President Yoweri Museveni Tibuhaburwa

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has been declared the winner of the January 15, 2026, General Election, extending his grip on power to over four decades. The 81-year-old secured a staggering 7,944,772 votes, equivalent to 71.61% of all valid ballots cast, according to the Electoral Commission.

Museveni’s main rival, National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, garnered 2,741,238 votes, representing 24.72% of the total vote. Wine has rejected the results, alleging electoral fraud and military takeover of the election process.

The opposition has pointed out several issues, including biometric machine failures, voter disruptions, and military presence at polling stations. The Electoral Commission (EC) has defended its handling of the vote, stating that delays were addressed by reverting to manual voting.

Election results per candidate

Yoweri Museveni (NRM): 71.65% (7,946,772 votes)
Robert Kyagulanyi (NUP): 24.7% (2,741,238 votes)
Nathan Mafabi (FDC): 1.88% (290,039 votes)
Gregory Mugisha Muntu (ANT): 0.59% (59,276 votes)
Mubarak Munyagwa (CMP): 0.29% (31,666 votes)
Robert Kasibante (NPP): 0.30% (33,440 votes)
Frank Bulira (RPP): 0.41% (45,159 votes)
Joseph Mabirizi (CP): 0.21% (23,458 votes)

The election was marred by controversy, with reports of polling delays, internet shutdowns, and allegations of voter intimidation. Despite this, Museveni’s victory is expected to further consolidate his hold on power in Uganda, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.

In Summary

– Voter Turnout: 52.5% of registered voters participated in the election

– Over 11 million votes cast

– Over 21 million

– Opposition Response: Bobi Wine rejects the results over alleged electoral irregularities.

– International Reaction: The international community has raised concerns over the electoral process.

Museveni’s victory marks a significant milestone in his decades-long rule, with many Ugandans crediting him for the country’s relative stability and economic growth.

Museveni has been in power since 1986, that’s over 40 years! He took over after a five-year guerrilla war and initially promised democratic governance. If he wins this election, he will have ruled Uganda for 45 years straight.

Museveni in power at a glance

Years in Power So Far: Museveni has been president for four decades.
He is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
He ascended to power in 1986 after a five-year bush war.
When he completes his new five-year term in 2031, he will have ruled Uganda for 45 years.
Then, he will be 86.

Museveni’s government points to Uganda’s economic growth and stability under his leadership, with GDP growing from $34 billion to $66 billion. However, critics argue his prolonged rule has stifled political competition and eroded democratic institutions.

The election was marred by controversy, with opposition leader Bobi Wine alleging electoral fraud and military takeover of the entire process. The international community has expressed concerns over the electoral process.