The Electoral Commission announces a decisive victory for the 81-year-old incumbent, extending his four-decade rule, while opposition leader Bobi Wine rejects the results as a “fabrication.”
KAMPALA (January 17, 2026) – The Uganda Electoral Commission has officially declared incumbent President Yoweri Museveni the winner of the 2026 general election, handing him a seventh term in office. Justice Simon Byabakama, chair of the commission, announced that Museveni secured 58.6% of the vote, while his closest rival, Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) of the National Unity Platform (NUP), garnered 34.8%.
The announcement extends Museveni’s 40-year rule, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. However, the victory is clouded by controversy. The election took place under a total internet blackout, and international observers were largely absent.
Bobi Wine, who is currently reported to be under heavy military surveillance, has rejected the outcome. In a message relayed through party officials, Wine termed the results a “complete fabrication” and alleged ballot stuffing and intimidation of voters. “The people of Uganda voted for change, but the military has voted for Museveni,” the NUP statement read.
