AU applauds conduct of Uganda election, congratulates Museveni on seventh-term victory

The African Union Commission (AUC) has commended the conduct of Uganda’s presidential election held on January 15 and congratulated President Yoweri Museveni on his re-election.

On January 15, Museveni, Uganda’s long-time leader, secured a landslide victory in the presidential election.

He won 71.65 percent of the votes according to official results announced by the electoral commission, extending his rule which began in 1986, into a seventh term.

Bobi Wine, his main challenger, came second with 24.72 percent of the vote

In a statement, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the AUC chairperson, praised the electoral process and noted that Museveni secured 71.61 percent of the votes cast.

“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% of the votes cast during the presidential elections held on 15 January 2026,” the statement reads.

“The chairperson further reiterates the commitment of the African Union Commission to continue to support the promotion of democracy and effective governance in the continent, while applauding the people of Uganda for their commitment to consolidating democratic gains, peace, security, and development.”

Youssouf also expressed appreciation to former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan for his leadership of the joint African Union, Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Election Observation Mission to Uganda.

He described Jonathan’s role as providing “sterling leadership” during the observation exercise.

The AUC chair reaffirmed the commission’s ongoing commitment to promoting democracy and good governance across the continent.

He applauded Ugandans for their dedication to strengthening democratic processes, while maintaining peace, security, and development. (The Cable)