President William Ruto has extended warm congratulations to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni following his decisive victory in the January 15, 2026, presidential elections.

The message, shared via official channels, underscores the deep fraternal ties between Kenya and Uganda and reaffirms Kenya’s commitment to regional cooperation.

In his letter, Ruto stated: “Following the formal pronouncement of your re-election as the President of the Republic of Uganda last evening, 17 January, 2026, I convey… my warm congratulations and best wishes to Your Excellency and to the great people of Uganda.”

He praised Museveni’s “decisive victory” as a reflection of public trust in his leadership and the National Resistance Movement (NRM), commended the peaceful conduct of the election, and expressed readiness to collaborate on shared priorities for socio-economic benefits across Kenya, Uganda, the region, and the continent.

The Ugandan Electoral Commission declared Museveni, 81, the winner with 71.65% of the vote (approximately 7.94 million ballots), securing his seventh term and extending his rule since 1986 into a fifth decade.

His main challenger, opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) of the National Unity Platform (NUP), received 24.72% (about 2.74 million votes).

The results have sparked significant controversy. Bobi Wine rejected them as “fake,” alleging widespread irregularities including vote rigging, ballot stuffing, and the kidnapping of polling staff.

Reports also highlighted deadly violence during the campaign and on election day, internet blackouts, and heavy security presence, with opposition supporters clashing with forces in various areas.

Some preliminary polls and urban surveys had suggested a closer contest, particularly in Kampala. Despite criticisms of authoritarian tendencies, restrictions on opposition, and transparency concerns, Museveni’s administration is credited with economic stability and infrastructure gains.

Some observers described the poll as largely peaceful overall.Ruto’s congratulations align with efforts to strengthen bilateral relations in trade, security, and East African Community integration.

As Uganda prepares for Museveni’s inauguration for the 2026-2031 term, the international community — including the African Union — has offered recognitions while urging dialogue to address grievances.

The coming weeks will test whether protests escalate or reconciliation prevails in this key East African nation.