President William Ruto has congratulated Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni following his re-election for a seventh term, reaffirming the strong relationship between Kenya and Uganda.
In a statement released on Sunday, January 18, 2026, President Ruto said Museveni’s victory reflected the confidence Ugandans have in his leadership.
He noted that the election outcome showed trust in both Museveni and the National Resistance Movement (NRM), adding that continuity in leadership would help Uganda advance its long-term development goals.
Ruto sent his congratulations on behalf of the Government and people of Kenya, describing the presidency as a high and sacred responsibility given by the people.
He wished Museveni success as he begins another term in office, expressing optimism about the future of Uganda under his leadership.
The Kenyan President also emphasized the close and brotherly ties between the two neighboring countries. He said Kenya is ready to continue working closely with Uganda to promote shared goals that benefit both nations.
According to Ruto, cooperation between Nairobi and Kampala will focus on key areas such as regional integration, trade, economic growth, and stability within East Africa and the wider African continent.
Museveni was officially declared president-elect by the Electoral Commission of Uganda on Saturday, January 17, following general elections held on January 15. He won the polls with 71.61 per cent of the total votes cast, translating to 7,994,772 votes.
His closest challenger, Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, finished second with 24.72 per cent, receiving 2,714,238 votes. Six other candidates shared the remaining votes.
Despite the official results, opposition groups have raised concerns over the conduct of the elections, claiming there were irregularities.
However, election observers reported that the voting process was peaceful and orderly and said they found no evidence of ballot stuffing, contradicting the opposition’s claims.
Museveni’s re-election has attracted mixed reactions across the region. While several African leaders, including the African Union Commission chairperson, congratulated him, some observers and members of the public have expressed concerns about democratic governance in Uganda.
President Ruto’s message of support highlights Kenya’s commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic relations with Uganda.
It also signals Nairobi’s intention to work with Kampala to strengthen cooperation and promote stability and development across the East African region.
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