Uganda Polls: Museveni Surges Ahead in Tight Presidential Race
Uganda’s presidential election on January 15, 2026, saw incumbent Yoweri Museveni grab an early lead with 61.7% of votes from initial polling stations.
Challenger Bobi Wine trailed at 33.6%, setting up a two-horse race amid heightened tensions.
Preliminary tallies from 133 out of over 50,000 stations signal Museveni’s strong start in his bid for extended rule.
Early Vote Breakdown
From the first results announced by the Electoral Commission, Museveni secured 14,232 votes (61.7%), Bobi Wine 7,753 (33.6%), with minor candidates like Nathan Nandala Mafabi at 2.43% and others sharing the rest. These figures represent just 0.26% of total stations, but indicate rural strongholds favoring the veteran leader.
Counting continues nationwide, with full results expected soon.
Tense Election Atmosphere
The polls unfolded under heavy security, an internet blackout, and reports of technical glitches at stations, raising opposition concerns over transparency. Museveni, 81, voted confidently in western Uganda, predicting 80% victory while decrying potential cheating.
Violence marred the campaign, testing Uganda’s democratic process 40 years into Museveni’s tenure.
As a key East African neighbor, Uganda’s outcome impacts trade, security, and migration flows into Kenya. This highlights the duel between Museveni’s NRM and Bobi Wine’s NUP, with eight candidates total but focus on the top two.
Economic policies and youth unrest remain pivotal voter issues.
Observers urge patience as more results pour in, with potential disputes from Bobi Wine’s camp if margins narrow.
East Africans watch closely for stability signals from Kampala. Tourists and businesses should monitor advisories amid any post-poll unrest.