Yoweri Museveni has officially been sworn in for a seventh consecutive term as Uganda’s president, extending his rule to more than four decades after securing victory in the country’s disputed January elections.
The 81-year-old leader, who first came to power in 1986 after leading a rebel movement, won the election with over 70 percent of the vote, according to Uganda’s electoral commission.
His latest term is expected to run until 2031, further cementing his position as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
Heavy Security Across Kampala During Inauguration
Security was significantly tightened across Kampala ahead of the inauguration ceremony, with reports of armoured vehicles and military deployments in several parts of the city.
Authorities said the measures were aimed at maintaining public order and preventing unrest during the swearing-in event held at Kololo Independence Grounds.
Thousands of supporters gathered at the venue as the Ugandan government declared the day a public holiday.
During his speech, Museveni urged Ugandans to focus on economic growth, job creation and national development.
He described the new administration as a period of “no more sleep,” calling on citizens to build on the country’s infrastructure and peace achievements over the past four decades.
Opposition Rejects Election Results
Museveni’s main challenger, Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, rejected the election outcome and alleged widespread irregularities during the voting process.
The opposition leader accused authorities of manipulating the results, while election officials denied all claims of fraud.
Following the election, Bobi Wine reportedly left Uganda, claiming he feared for his safety and accusing state agents of targeting him.
Wine later urged citizens to continue demanding democratic reforms and accountability.
The election period has drawn criticism from international rights organisations over alleged abuses by security agencies.
Rights groups, including Amnesty International, have accused Ugandan security forces of using excessive force against civilians and opposition supporters following the disputed polls.
The government has repeatedly denied allegations of political repression, insisting the elections were free, fair and conducted according to the law.
Another prominent opposition figure, Kizza Besigye, remains in detention over weapons-related allegations, charges he has strongly denied.
Questions Over Uganda’s Political Future
Museveni has not publicly stated whether this will be his final term, although political analysts believe the transition debate within Uganda may intensify over the coming years.
Attention has increasingly turned toward his son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s military chief, who has frequently been mentioned as a possible successor.
However, critics have accused him of making controversial statements against opposition figures on social media, further fuelling political tensions in the country.
African Leaders Attend Ceremony
Several African leaders attended the inauguration ceremony, including:
- Samia Suluhu Hassan
- Felix Tshisekedi
- Salva Kiir
- Hassan Sheikh Mohamud
Their presence highlighted Uganda’s continued influence within regional politics despite ongoing concerns surrounding governance and democracy.
- Routers
- BBC