January 19, 2026

AU Hails Uganda Poll, Felicitates Museveni on Seventh Term

 

The African Union Commission (AUC) has commended the conduct of Uganda’s presidential election and congratulated President Yoweri Museveni on his re-election for a seventh term in office.

Museveni, who has led Uganda since 1986, secured a decisive victory in the January 15 poll, winning 71.65 per cent of the votes, according to results released by the country’s electoral commission. His closest challenger, opposition figure Bobi Wine, garnered 24.72 per cent.

In a statement issued on Sunday, AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf applauded the peaceful conduct of the election and reaffirmed the continental body’s commitment to deepening democratic governance across Africa.

“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, commends the conduct of the elections in Uganda and congratulates H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on his re-election with 71.61 per cent of the votes cast during the presidential elections held on 15 January 2026,” the statement read.

Youssouf reiterated the AU’s resolve to continue supporting democratic consolidation, peace and sustainable development on the continent, while praising Ugandans for their commitment to strengthening national stability.

He also lauded former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan for chairing the joint African Union, Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Election Observation Mission to Uganda, describing his leadership as exemplary.

The AUC chair stressed that the Union would remain engaged with Uganda and other member states in promoting credible elections and good governance.

Museveni’s latest victory extends his four-decade grip on power, further cementing his position as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.