President William Ruto. Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Reporter
Kenya’s President William Ruto has congratulated Uganda’s President-elect Yoweri Kaguta Museveni following his victory in the general elections held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, joining regional and continental bodies in endorsing the outcome and calling for unity as Uganda moves into a new political phase.
Announcing the final tally on Saturday, Electoral Commission chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama said Museveni secured 71.65 per cent of the votes cast, comfortably ahead of his closest challenger, National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who garnered 24.7 per cent.
In a statement released on Saturday after the official declaration of results, President Ruto said the outcome reflected the will of the Ugandan people and reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Kampala.
He noted that Uganda remains a key partner to Kenya in trade, infrastructure development and regional security cooperation, adding that Nairobi looks forward to continued collaboration under Museveni’s leadership.
President Ruto emphasised the importance of peace, stability and democratic continuity in the East African region, saying credible and orderly electoral processes are essential for sustained development. He urged Ugandans to remain calm and united in the post-election period as the country prepares for the next phase of governance.
Ruto backs regional cooperation
Ruto described Museveni as an experienced regional leader whose role has been central to advancing integration and cooperation in East Africa. He reiterated Kenya’s readiness to work closely with Uganda to promote shared priorities, including economic growth, cross-border trade, infrastructure expansion and collective security.
Ruto also underscored the need for dialogue and inclusivity after elections, calling on political leaders and supporters to engage constructively for the sake of national cohesion.
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He said peaceful acceptance of electoral outcomes and respect for institutions remain vital pillars for democracy across the region.
Uganda’s election outcome has attracted keen interest in neighbouring countries, given its strategic position in regional politics and economics. Kenya and Uganda maintain deep commercial ties, with extensive cross-border trade, shared transport corridors and cooperation in energy and oil-related projects.
AU and IGAD endorse poll outcome
President Ruto’s congratulatory message was echoed by the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), both of which issued statements welcoming Museveni’s victory and the conclusion of the electoral process.
The AUC congratulated the people of Uganda for participating in the elections and called on all stakeholders to uphold peace, unity and constitutional order. It reiterated the African Union’s commitment to supporting member states in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting stability.
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IGAD also hailed the completion of the polls, urging political actors and their supporters to remain calm and resolve any disputes through legal and constitutional mechanisms. The regional bloc stressed that stability in Uganda is critical to peace and security across the wider Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region.
Both organisations said they would continue engaging with Uganda as it undertakes post-election processes, including the swearing-in of the President-elect and the formation of the next government.
Museveni wins by wide margin
The results handed Museveni another term in office, extending his long-standing tenure at the helm of Ugandan politics.
The election followed an intense campaign period marked by high voter engagement, particularly among young people, and close scrutiny by local and international observers.
While opposition leaders have raised concerns over aspects of the electoral process, the Electoral Commission has maintained that the polls were conducted in line with the law. Authorities have urged aggrieved parties to pursue any grievances through established legal channels.
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