Kigali, Rwanda – In the wake of Uganda’s presidential election, which saw President Yoweri Museveni secure a commanding victory, regional and continental leaders have extended their congratulations, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration and stability across East Africa.
Museveni was officially declared the winner following the final tally from over 50,000 polling stations nationwide. The Electoral Commission (EC) chaired by Simon Byabakama announced the results.
According to the EC, Museveni garnered 7,946,772 votes, representing 71.65 percent of the total, while opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, secured 2,741,238 votes representing 24.72 percent.
Voter turnout was reported at 52.5 percent, with more than 11.3 million ballots cast from an electorate of approximately 21.6 million registered voters.
In a statement shared publicly, Rwandan President Paul Kagame was among the first to extend his congratulations, highlighting the value of bilateral cooperation.
“Congratulations President Kaguta Museveni on your re-election as President of the Republic of Uganda. I extend my best wishes to you and the people of Uganda as you continue to serve your nation for the prosperity of your people. I look forward to the continued strong and productive cooperation between our two countries.” Kagame said.
Kenya’s President William Ruto also sent a warm message of congratulations, praising both Museveni’s leadership and the peaceful conduct of Uganda’s elections.
“Your decisive victory at the just concluded competitive General Election reflects the trust that the people of the Republic of Uganda have in your personal leadership and the confidence enjoyed by the NRM party,” Ruto stated.
He further reaffirmed Kenya’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Uganda to advance mutual socio-economic priorities and strengthen regional development.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu similarly celebrated Museveni’s victory, highlighting the historical and fraternal ties between Tanzania and Uganda.
“Your victory represents the confidence and trust the people of the Republic of Uganda have in your leadership and vision. I am looking forward to continuing working with you in deepening the fraternal and historical bond between our two countries, for the benefit of all our citizens,” she said.
The African Union (AU), through its Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, also commended Uganda for the smooth conduct of its elections.
The AU highlighted the role of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, who led the Joint AU/COMESA/IGAD Election Observation Mission, and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democracy and good governance across Africa.
“We applaud the people of Uganda for their dedication to consolidating democratic gains, peace, security, and development,” the statement noted.
Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye and Kenya’s National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Dr. Moses Wetang’ula also extended their congratulations.
Both emphasized continued collaboration with Uganda in strengthening regional integration, supporting the East African Community’s initiatives, and consolidating long-standing bilateral ties.
Uganda’s neighbors have expressed optimism that Museveni’s re-election will further enhance cooperation in security, infrastructure development, trade, and the broader East African integration agenda, ensuring shared prosperity across the region.
