Uganda’s president-elect, Yoweri Museveni, has taken an oath to serve as the president of the Republic of Uganda for the seventh time.

Museveni was sworn in on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, in an event that took place at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala, marking the start of his seventh term as president following his declaration as the winner of the general elections held earlier in January 2026.

While taking the oath of office, Museveni has promised to uphold, preserve and defend the constitution of Uganda and observe the laws of the land as stipulated in the constitution.

“I shall faithfully exercise the functions of the President of Uganda and shall uphold, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and observe the laws of Uganda and promote the welfare of the people of Uganda,” Museveni said.

Dignitaries attend the swearing-in

Thousands of Ugandans, leaders, diplomats and dignitaries from all over Africa have attended the swearing-in ceremony to mark the swearing-in of one of the continent’s longest-serving leaders. The event witnessed military parades, cultural displays and celebrations as Museveni vowed to remain at the helm of the development agenda for Uganda.

The event was attended by several regional political leaders, including those of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and South Sudan, demonstrating Uganda’s strong diplomatic relations with the neighbouring countries. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, for President William Ruto, represented Kenya.

Among other dignitaries who have attended the event is the former president of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta.

In January 2026, Museveni won the general elections, continuing his decades-long rule, which started in 1986. His government has been known for its strides in infrastructure development, integration and security in the region, and his critics have repeatedly voiced worries about governance and democratic space.

Museveni’s tenure

Uganda marks another historic step as Museveni spans decades at the helm of the country’s leadership.

The president of Uganda, Museveni, first came to power in January 1986, defeating the government after years of political turmoil and violence in the country through the leadership of the National Resistance Army.

He has been in charge of Uganda’s leadership for the past 40 years, witnessing significant political and economic changes and also being criticised by his opponents for his governance, democratic freedoms and constitutional reforms that enabled him to stay in power.

By the time his seventh term concludes in 2031, he will have ruled Uganda for 45 consecutive years.