By Our Staff Reporter

Kampala, Uganda – May 12, 2026 — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was officially sworn in today for his seventh five-year presidential term, extending his leadership of Uganda which began in 1986.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala this Tuesday morning. Chief Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija administered the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of President to Museveni in front of thousands of jubilant supporters who filled the grounds with cheers and traditional ululations.

Outgoing Vice President Jessica Alupo congratulated the gathering, stating: “We now have a new president who will take us through the presidential term 2026 to 2031. Thank you NRM cadres, leaders and mobilisers.”

Following the oaths, Museveni received the instruments of power, including the Constitution of Uganda, the national flag, the presidential standard, the national anthem document, the coat of arms, and the public seal. The national anthem was played, accompanied by a 21-gun salute. The national flag, earlier lowered, was hoisted once more. Museveni then inspected the military parade for the first time in his new term.

Now aged 81, Museveni has led Uganda for over four decades. He first came to power in 1986 after a five-year bush war, promising stability and development. In the January 15, 2026 general elections, he secured 71.65% of the vote (approximately 7.95 million votes), according to the Electoral Commission, defeating his closest challenger, Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), who received about 24.72%.

The inauguration drew high-level international guests, with reports of over 35 heads of state or their representatives attending. The event was declared a public holiday, and featured tight security, cultural performances, and celebrations across the capital.

The new term is expected to focus on economic transformation under the theme of “Protecting the gains, making a qualitative leap into high middle-income status.” Key priorities include agricultural value addition (especially coffee), advancing the oil and gas sector, infrastructure expansion, industrialization, youth empowerment, and strengthening regional cooperation on trade and security.

Supporters credit Museveni’s leadership with restoring peace, building roads, expanding electricity access, and fostering steady economic growth in a country once plagued by instability. Critics continue to raise concerns about governance, political space, and youth unemployment.

As one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, President Museveni’s seventh term will be watched closely for its impact on Uganda’s development trajectory and democratic progress.
The ceremony at the historic Kololo grounds marks a new chapter as Uganda embarks on the 2026–2031 presidential term.