African Union Praises Uganda’s Elections

January 19, 2026

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — The African Union Commission has commended the conduct of Uganda’s recent presidential elections and congratulated President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on his re-election, describing the polls as a positive step toward strengthening democracy across the continent.

In a statement released by the Chairperson of the African Union, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the elections held on January 15, 2026, were hailed as a constructive development in Uganda’s democratic journey. President Museveni secured a decisive 71.61 percent of the vote, extending his long-standing leadership of the country.
Youssouf expressed the African Union’s “sincere appreciation” to former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan for his “sterling leadership” of the joint election observation mission organized by the African Union, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

The AU Chairperson reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting democracy, effective governance, peace, and stability across Africa. He also applauded the Ugandan people for their dedication to consolidating democratic gains, peace, security, and development.
The African Union reiterated its readiness to continue working with Uganda and other member states to promote credible electoral processes and strengthen democratic institutions throughout the continent.