By Bukola Hameed
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has officially been sworn in for a seventh term in office, extending his rule in the East African nation to nearly four decades.
The inauguration ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, Uganda’s capital, where thousands of supporters, government officials and foreign dignitaries gathered to witness the event. Museveni, 81, took the oath of office amid tight security and military displays.
Museveni secured victory in Uganda’s January 2026 presidential election with 71.65 percent of the vote, according to the country’s Electoral Commission. His closest challenger, opposition leader Bobi Wine, rejected the results, alleging widespread electoral malpractice and intimidation during the polls.
The election period was marked by reports of internet shutdowns, arrests and abductions of opposition supporters, drawing criticism from rights groups and international observers. Despite the controversies, Museveni’s supporters credit him with restoring stability and improving Uganda’s economy since he first assumed power in 1986 after leading a rebel insurgency.
During the ceremony, Museveni pledged to continue pursuing economic transformation, regional security and infrastructure development. Military parades and aerial displays were also part of the inauguration activities, reportedly overseen by his son and army chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Museveni remains one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. Constitutional amendments during his administration removed presidential term and age limits, enabling him to remain eligible for re-election indefinitely.
Observers say attention is now shifting toward Uganda’s future political transition and the growing influence of Muhoozi Kainerugaba within the country’s leadership structure.