The African Union has congratulated Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on his re-election and praised the overall conduct of Uganda’s presidential polls, describing the process as largely peaceful despite some noted concerns.
In a statement issued after the announcement of final results, the African Union said the elections reflected the Ugandan people’s commitment to democratic participation. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni secured another term in office after being declared winner with 71.61 per cent of the vote in the January 15, 2026 election.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf commended the peaceful manner in which voting was conducted and applauded Ugandans for turning out to exercise their democratic rights. He noted that citizen participation demonstrated dedication to democratic consolidation, peace, security, and national development.
The AU also expressed appreciation for Goodluck Jonathan, who led the joint AU–COMESA–IGAD election observation mission deployed across Uganda. The mission monitored polling, vote counting, and the closing of selected polling stations during the election period.
Earlier on Saturday, the joint observation mission reported that it did not observe ballot stuffing at the polling stations it visited. Observers described voting at those locations as peaceful, particularly during the closing and counting processes.
Jonathan clarified that while observers were unable to cover all polling stations nationwide, the stations they monitored showed no evidence of ballot stuffing. He said their assessment was based on direct observation at several locations, especially during vote counting.
Despite the positive assessment, observers raised concerns about incidents reported during the election period. These included allegations of intimidation, arrests, and abductions involving opposition supporters and civil society actors, which the mission warned had the potential to undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The observers also criticised the nationwide internet shutdown imposed during the polls, saying it disrupted effective election observation and heightened suspicion among voters and monitors. According to the mission, access to information is critical for transparency and trust during elections.
In addition, the mission noted that voting started late at some polling stations due to logistical challenges. However, it said the general atmosphere at the stations observed remained calm and orderly.
The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democracy, good governance, and development across the continent, stating that continued engagement with member states remains central to strengthening electoral credibility and democratic institutions in Africa.
