Uganda's long-serving President Yoweri Museveni has clinched a seventh term in office, according to official results announced on Saturday 17 January 2026. The electoral commission declared that Museveni secured 71.65 per cent of the vote, extending his rule that began in 1986.
Opposition Rejects 'Fake' Results and Alleges Fraud
His main challenger, the musician-turned-politician known as Bobi Wine, whose real name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, garnered 24.72 per cent. Wine has vehemently rejected the outcome, labelling the results as "fake" and condemning what he described as a deeply unfair electoral process. He urged his supporters to engage in peaceful protest until what he called the "rightful results" are announced.
Wine's campaign was marred by allegations of state harassment. He claimed that on Friday, security forces stormed his house, forcing him to escape to avoid arrest. His party had earlier stated he was taken away in an army helicopter, a claim denied by police. Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke insisted Wine was "not under arrest" but confirmed "controlled access" to his property to prevent incitement of violence.
Technical Failures and Legal Challenges
The election was overshadowed by significant operational issues. Biometric voter identification machines failed as voting began on Thursday, causing major delays, particularly in urban opposition strongholds like the capital, Kampala. This was a blow to pro-democracy activists who had advocated for the technology to prevent rigging.
Officials reverted to manual voter registers, a move Museveni endorsed. However, Bobi Wine alleged this facilitated "massive ballot stuffing" and claimed his polling agents were abducted to give the ruling party an unfair advantage. The failure of the biometric system is expected to form the basis for any legal challenge to the official result.
A Political Landscape Shaped by the Incumbent
Analysts point to Museveni's firm grip on the state apparatus as a defining factor. Yusuf Serunkuma, an academic and columnist, told The Associated Press that Wine "didn't stand a chance" against the authoritarian leader. He credited Museveni with successfully emasculating the opposition, which he described as one of the weakest in recent times due to a lack of unity.
Museveni, 81, has systematically removed obstacles to his prolonged rule, including presidential term and age limits from the constitution. Potential rivals have been jailed or sidelined. Throughout the campaign, security forces were a constant presence; Wine campaigned in a flak jacket and helmet, alleging his supporters were harassed with tear gas.
The result means Uganda, which gained independence from British colonial rule six decades ago, has yet to witness a peaceful transfer of presidential power. Meanwhile, veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye remains in prison on treason charges filed in February 2025.
