Uganda's long-serving leader, Yoweri Museveni, has secured another five years in power, extending his rule to an unprecedented four and a half decades. The 81-year-old president was declared the winner of the country's 2026 presidential election, a vote overshadowed by reports of violence, intimidation, and a nationwide internet blackout.
Election Marred by Violence and Shutdowns
The Electoral Commission announced on Saturday, January 17, 2026, that Museveni had won 71.65% of the vote cast in the Thursday election. His main challenger, the former singer and politician Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, garnered 24.72%. The announcement came amidst a tense atmosphere, with African election observers noting that a series of arrests and abductions in the lead-up to the poll had successfully "instilled fear" among the populace.
Reports from the ground indicated that at least 10 people lost their lives in election-related violence. Civil society groups and opposition agents also faced widespread intimidation, casting a long shadow over the credibility of the electoral process. A significant internet shutdown was also enforced during the critical period, severely limiting communication and the flow of information.
Opposition Leader in Hiding, Rejects Results
The aftermath of the poll saw Bobi Wine, 43, declare a "complete rejection of the fake results." He revealed that he was forced into hiding following a raid by security forces on his home on Friday night. In a post on the social media platform X on Saturday, Wine stated, "I want to confirm that I managed to escape from them. Currently, I am not at home, although my wife and other family members remain under house arrest."
He added, "I know that these criminals are looking for me everywhere, and I am trying my best to keep safe." Wine has been a constant target of state pressure since his entry into politics, enduring multiple arrests before his first presidential bid in 2021.
Police Deny Raid, Cite Security Concerns
Ugandan police officials offered a contradictory account of the events at Bobi Wine's residence. Police spokesman Kituuma Rusoke denied that a raid had taken place. Instead, he told reporters that security forces had merely "controlled access in areas we feel are security hotspots."
Rusoke insisted that they believed the opposition leader was still inside his home and defended the security measures. "We have not necessarily denied people accessing him, but we cannot tolerate instances where people use his residence to gather and... incite violence," he explained. This seventh-term victory solidifies Yoweri Museveni's position as one of Africa's longest-serving rulers, with his tenure now set to reach 45 years by the end of this new term.
