President Museveni has formally received the declaration of his re-election as president of Uganda, pledging to prioritise poverty eradication, economic growth, unity, and disciplined governance in his new term.
Museveni, the NRM candidate, secured more than seven million votes according to provisional Electoral Commission figures, representing 71% of the valid cast votes. His closest challenger, Robert Kyagulanyi of the National Unity Platform (NUP), scored 24.7%. He has rejected the results.
Museveni was presented with the declaration by the NRM Central Executive Committee at his country home in Rwakitura.
In his acceptance remarks, he thanked God and the First Lady, Janet Museveni, for their support, saying the victory was part of a long political struggle dating back more than five decades.
He credited the win to collective effort by party members, leaders, and institutions, including the armed forces, religious leaders, and cultural leaders, whom he said played a key role in maintaining peace during the electoral process.
Museveni noted that a large number of voters did not turn up to vote and said the party must study the reasons behind the low turnout, particularly among its supporters.
He said the NRM must return to its founding principles of unity and stability, citing improved peace in parts of northern and eastern Uganda that were previously affected by conflict.
Museveni said government programmes such as the Parish Development Model and presidential skilling hubs had restored hope among citizens by addressing household poverty and equipping young people with practical skills.
However, he acknowledged gaps in implementation and said the government would assess what is working and what is not.
On security, Museveni warned against acts of violence linked to political extremism and accused some groups of working with foreign interests. He said peace in Uganda is sustained not only by security agencies but also by the discipline of citizens, including those in the opposition.
Looking ahead, Museveni outlined two key economic priorities. He said the government would support wealth creators who are already in the money economy while intensifying efforts to lift the remaining households out of poverty through targeted interventions.
He reaffirmed his commitment to free education in government schools, improved healthcare services, and tougher action against corruption, warning elected leaders that he would be strict in enforcing accountability during the new term.
Museveni also said Uganda’s oil production is expected to begin this year, stressing that revenues should be invested in long-term national assets such as infrastructure, energy, and science education rather than short-term consumption.
The First Lady, who is also the Minister of Education and Sports, congratulated the NRM family and urged leaders to remain faithful, disciplined, and committed to guiding the country on the right path.
