General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), has described the 2026 general elections as the most peaceful in the country’s history. Speaking during the 45th Tarehe Sita commemoration in Kabale District, Gen Muhoozi congratulated citizens for exercising their democratic rights calmly and responsibly.
“I congratulate the people of Uganda on peacefully exercising your right in the just concluded presidential, parliamentary and local council elections,” he said.
“It is comforting that, save for a few isolated cases, security was maintained across most parts of the country. Voters went about electing their leaders in a serene, calm, and secure environment.”
Gen Muhoozi also extended his congratulations to President Yoweri Museveni, calling his victory the most decisive since 1996. He emphasized continued support for national development initiatives and Uganda’s vision to attain upper middle-income status.
“The people of the Great Lakes region celebrated this victory as your leadership transcends Uganda’s borders. We will steadfastly support you in your quest to transform Uganda,” Gen Muhoozi said.
Mixed Reactions from Observers
Despite Gen Muhoozi’s praise, independent observers and civil society groups offered a more nuanced assessment. The African Union (AU), COMESA, and IGAD deployed election observation missions to monitor the polls, reflecting regional interest in Uganda’s electoral credibility.
Rights groups highlighted restrictions on freedoms, including NGO suspensions, communication blackouts, and limited political space ahead of the elections. Critics also pointed to low voter turnout, the lowest since multi-party politics resumed, raising questions about participation and transparency.
The Electoral Commission confirmed that the 15 January polls were conducted with minimal disruption, describing the general conduct as “generally peaceful” and urging disputing parties to seek legal recourse.
