Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has been sworn in for a record seventh consecutive term, extending his 40-year rule after winning disputed elections in January.
The 81-year-old was declared winner with more than 70% of the vote and will remain in office until 2031. Heavy security, including armoured tanks, was deployed in Kampala ahead of the ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds, which the government declared a public holiday.
Museveni’s main rival, Bobi Wine, rejected the result and said the poll was marred by ballot-stuffing. Election officials denied the claim. Wine fled the country after the vote, saying he feared for his life.
The inauguration was attended by several African leaders, including Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan and DR Congo’s Félix Tshisekedi.
Museveni first came to power in 1986 and is now one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. He has not said when he will retire, but analysts say this is likely to be his last term. His son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the military chief, is widely seen as a potential successor.
Rights groups have criticised the government over a crackdown following the election, with Amnesty International reporting at least 16 people killed in January.
