Ruto congratulates Museveni on seventh term as Uganda president

President William Ruto has congratulated Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on his re-election as Uganda’s president for a seventh term.

Museveni was declared the winner of Uganda’s general election, extending his rule to nearly 40 years after securing another five-year term in office, according to the Electoral Commission.

The commission said Museveni won with 7.9 million votes, representing 71.6 per cent, beating his closest rival, opposition leader Bobi Wine, by a wide margin.

In a message, President Ruto said Museveni’s re-election strengthens his resolve to speed up Uganda’s development.

“Following the formal announcement of your re-election as President of the Republic of Uganda on January 17, 2026, I convey, on behalf of the Government and people of Kenya and on my own behalf, my warm congratulations and best wishes to Your Excellency and to the people of Uganda,” Ruto said.

He praised Ugandans and other stakeholders for holding what he described as a peaceful election, saying it showed democratic maturity.

Ruto added that Kenya and Uganda enjoy strong brotherly ties and said his government is ready to work closely with Museveni’s administration to advance shared priorities for the social and economic benefit of citizens of both countries and the region.

However, Bobi Wine rejected the results, calling them “fake” and accusing the authorities of ballot stuffing. He has urged Ugandans to hold peaceful protests.

Museveni, 81, first came to power in 1986 as a rebel leader and has since won seven elections, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.

The election was held amid tension and reports of violence. Bobi Wine, a 43-year-old former pop star turned politician, said at least 21 people were killed during the election period, while the authorities have confirmed seven deaths.

Internet access has been cut across Uganda since Tuesday, making it difficult to verify information. The government says the shutdown is to prevent misinformation and incitement to violence, but the UN human rights office has described the move as “deeply worrying”.

After the vote, Wine said security forces raided his home in Magere, Kampala, and placed his family under house arrest. His party earlier claimed he had been seized by a helicopter, but Wine later said he managed to escape during the night.