The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has commended the conduct of Uganda’s presidential and parliamentary elections held on 15 January 2026, describing the process as a positive step in the country’s democratic journey.
In an official statement released by the African Union on 17 January 2026, Youssouf congratulated President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on his re-election after securing 71.61% of the valid votes cast, according to Uganda’s electoral authorities.
The AU Commission Chairperson also expressed appreciation to former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan for his role as Head of the Joint African Union–COMESA–IGAD Election Observation Mission to Uganda. The statement praised Jonathan’s leadership and oversight of the observer mission, which was deployed to assess the electoral environment, voting process, and post-election developments across the country.
According to the African Union, the observation mission forms part of its broader mandate to promote democratic governance, peace, and political stability across member states. The Commission noted that such missions are essential in strengthening public confidence in electoral processes and supporting institutional development on the continent.
Youssouf further reaffirmed the African Union Commission’s commitment to supporting democracy and effective governance in Africa, while acknowledging the participation of Ugandan citizens in the electoral process. He commended voters for their engagement in what the AU described as efforts to consolidate democratic gains, peace, security, and national development.
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The statement comes amid mixed international reactions to Uganda’s election, with some opposition groups and civil society actors raising concerns about the electoral environment. Nevertheless, the African Union’s position aligns with its emphasis on dialogue, institutional continuity, and regional stability.
The full statement below:
Museveni declared winner of Uganda’s presidential election
