81-Year-Old Uganda President, Museveni Sworn In for Seventh Term After 40 Years in Office Amid Poor Health
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has been sworn in for a record seventh consecutive term, further cementing his place among Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
Museveni took the oath of office on Tuesday at the Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, the Ugandan capital, before thousands of cheering supporters.
The 81-year-old leader, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, secured re-election in January following a landslide victory in a highly contested poll.
His main challenger, Bobi Wine, alleged widespread electoral malpractice, including ballot stuffing. However, Uganda’s electoral commission dismissed the claims.
Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, later fled the country, claiming he feared for his safety and alleging that “the regime wanted to eliminate me.”
Ahead of the inauguration, security was significantly tightened across Kampala, with armoured vehicles and heavy police presence stationed around key areas. Authorities said the deployment was aimed at maintaining public order during the ceremony.
In his inaugural address, Museveni urged Ugandans to embrace what he described as “no more sleep for all Ugandans,” calling for renewed commitment to economic growth, job creation, and national development.
He also highlighted achievements recorded during his four decades in power, including improved security and major infrastructure projects.
Since assuming office, Museveni has overseen constitutional amendments that removed both presidential term and age limits, allowing him to extend his rule.
Meanwhile, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Museveni’s 51-year-old son and the country’s military chief, is widely viewed as a possible successor.