Uganda’s President Museveni Secures Controversial Seventh Term, Extending 40-Year Rule

President Yoweri Museveni has won Uganda’s presidential election, securing a seventh term that extends his rule to nearly four decades. The 81-year-old leader was declared the winner with 71.65% of the vote, following an election marred by violence, arrests, and a nationwide internet blackout.

His main challenger, the 43-year-old singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who garnered 24.72% of the vote, has rejected the results. Wine claims he is now “on the run” after security forces allegedly raided his home on Friday night, forcing him to escape while his family was placed under house arrest.

Ugandan police deny raiding Wine’s residence, stating they only restricted movement in designated “security hotspots” to prevent post-election violence. However, residents in the area reported a heavy security presence, including drones and helicopters, which caused significant fear in the neighborhood. This contested outcome deepens the political crisis in Uganda as Museveni prepares to continue his long tenure in power.