Ruto Congratulates Museveni on Seventh Term as Uganda’s President

President William Ruto has congratulated Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni on his re-election to a seventh term, following the Electoral Commission’s declaration of results on 17 January.

In a statement, Ruto said Museveni’s victory reflected public confidence in his leadership and in the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). He described the election as peaceful and orderly, and praised Ugandans for supporting democratic processes. Ruto said the outcome would help advance Uganda’s national development.

Ruto also highlighted the close relationship between Kenya and Uganda, saying the two countries would continue to strengthen cooperation in trade, regional integration and socio-economic development. He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to working with Uganda under Museveni’s leadership, noting that bilateral cooperation supports stability and growth across the region.

According to official figures, Museveni, 81, won 71.6 percent of the vote, amounting to nearly eight million ballots. His main challenger, Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, received 24.7 percent. Museveni has been in power since 1986, when his National Resistance Army took control of the government. His new term will run until 2031.

The opposition rejected the results, alleging ballot manipulation, military involvement and intimidation of election officials. Kyagulanyi said the outcome lacked credibility and criticised reports of violence against protesters. Some observers, however, reported that voting proceeded in a generally calm and orderly manner.

Uganda’s political system has changed over time, with earlier constitutional limits on presidential terms and age removed to allow Museveni to remain in office. Supporters say his experience has contributed to stability and development, while critics argue that long tenure weakens democratic competition.

Ruto’s message followed similar remarks from the African Union Commission.