Kampala, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni has been officially declared the winner of Uganda’s presidential election, securing another five-year term after authorities confirmed the vote was transparent and conducted in line with national electoral laws. The announcement extends Museveni’s leadership, which began in 1986, beyond four decades following what officials described as a credible and fair process.
According to results released by the Electoral Commission, Museveni won with 72 percent of the vote, comfortably ahead of his closest challenger, Bobi Wine, who garnered 25 percent. Election officials said the figures reflected the will of voters across the country, with turnout recorded at just over 52 percent nationwide.
The declaration follows Thursday’s nationwide poll, which authorities said was managed under heightened security to ensure order and protect the integrity of the process. Government officials emphasized that the election met constitutional requirements and that Museveni’s victory was achieved fairly through the ballot.
Museveni, now 81, first rose to power as a rebel leader in 1986 and has since won seven presidential elections. During the campaign, he presented himself as a stabilizing figure, arguing that his experience remains vital for Uganda’s security and economic continuity. Supporters credit his administration with maintaining relative stability in a country with a complex political history.
Opposition candidate Bobi Wine rejected the outcome, alleging irregularities including ballot manipulation. However, no verified evidence has been presented publicly, and authorities have not substantiated the claims. The government has repeatedly stated that safeguards were in place to prevent fraud and that the outcome reflects a legitimate democratic choice.
In the days surrounding the vote, security incidents were reported in parts of the country. Authorities confirmed several fatalities linked to election-related disturbances, while opposition sources claimed higher figures. Officials urged calm, stressing that investigations into reported incidents are ongoing and that the state remains committed to maintaining law and order.
Access to the internet was temporarily restricted during the voting period, a move the government said was necessary to curb misinformation and prevent unrest. While the decision drew criticism from rights groups, officials maintained that the measure was aimed at protecting the electoral process rather than influencing the outcome.
Despite tensions, the Electoral Commission reiterated that the election was transparent and that all candidates were given an opportunity to compete. Six other contenders participated in the race, though none secured more than two percent of the vote.
As Uganda prepares for another Museveni term, attention now shifts to governance priorities, national reconciliation, and economic management. The president has pledged continuity in policy, while urging citizens to move forward peacefully after what authorities insist was a fair and decisive election.
