In a moment that marks a significant chapter in Uganda’s political saga, Yoweri Museveni, at 81 years old, has been sworn in for his seventh term as president. His victory in January’s highly contested elections—marred by claims of intimidation and a nationwide internet blackout—has further solidified his status as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, extending a remarkable 40-year tenure since he first took office in 1986.
The grand ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, where thousands gathered to cheer for the veteran leader. An electoral outcome of 71.65 percent in favor of Museveni—according to Uganda’s Electoral Commission—set the stage for his continued leadership, while opposition leader Bobi Wine, known off-stage as Robert Kyagulanyi, cried foul over “massive” ballot stuffing, garnering only 24.72 percent of the vote.
Over the decades, Museveni has shaken up Uganda’s constitution twice, removing both presidential term and age limits to extend his hold on power. Ironically, he once articulated that Africa’s challenge lies in leaders overstaying their welcome. Yet, his legacy is not without merit; many Ugandans credit him with steering the nation towards rapid economic growth and stabilizing a country that was once reeling from post-independence chaos.
As Museveni took to the stage, he underlined his government’s ambition to harness revenue from impending oil production projects to combat poverty and drive economic growth. His history as a rebel leader combined with seven electoral victories puts him in the same company as other long-standing rulers like Denis Sassou Nguesso of Congo-Brazzaville, Teodoro Obiang of Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon’s Paul Biya.
Joining the celebration were notable African leaders, including Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Félix Tshisekedi, highlighting Museveni’s continuing influence on the continent. Today, Uganda boasts one of the youngest populations in the world, with many citizens having known only Museveni as their leader.
While he has not disclosed any intention of stepping down, analysts speculate that this may very well be Museveni’s final term. The coming years are likely to be crucial as Uganda navigates its path forward under his seasoned, yet controversial, leadership.
