In a statement issued on Sunday, January 18, President Ruto acknowledged the outcome of the election, praised Uganda’s democratic process, and reaffirmed the long-standing fraternal relationship between Kenya and Uganda.
Ruto said Museveni’s victory reflected the confidence and trust Ugandan voters have in his leadership and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
“Following the formal pronouncement of your re-election as President of the Republic of Uganda on January 17, 2026, I convey, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Kenya and on my own behalf, my warm congratulations and best wishes to Your Excellency and the great people of Uganda,” Ruto stated.
He added that the decisive win demonstrated public confidence in Museveni’s leadership and expressed optimism that the new term would further accelerate Uganda’s transformation.
“Your decisive victory at the just concluded competitive General Election reflects the trust that the people of Uganda have in your personal leadership and the confidence enjoyed by the NRM party. I am certain your re-election will reinvigorate your resolve to accelerate the transformation of your country,” he said.
President Ruto also commended Ugandans and electoral stakeholders for conducting what he described as a peaceful election, saying it demonstrated democratic maturity.
“For undertaking a peaceful election, I sincerely commend the people of Uganda and all stakeholders in the electoral process, which attests to the democratic maturity of Uganda,” he added.
Reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to regional cooperation, Ruto emphasized his government’s readiness to continue working closely with Museveni’s administration to advance shared priorities.
“Dear Brother, our two countries enjoy deep fraternal bonds. I reaffirm the readiness of the Government of the Republic of Kenya to work with Your Excellency to advance our shared priorities for the mutual socio-economic benefit of our citizens, the region, and the continent,” Ruto concluded.
The congratulatory message comes amid heightened security concerns in Uganda following the elections.
Days earlier, the United States Embassy in Uganda issued a security alert to American citizens after reports emerged of security forces using tear gas and live ammunition to disperse gatherings as election results were awaited.
In a statement released on Friday, January 16, the embassy urged U.S. citizens to exercise caution, avoid large public gatherings, and limit unnecessary movements.
“Uganda held presidential elections on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Official results are pending. There are reports of security forces using teargas and firing into the air to disperse gatherings,” the advisory read.
The embassy also advised Americans to monitor local media, avoid demonstrations, remain vigilant, carry proper identification, and ensure their mobile phones are fully charged with emergency contacts readily available.
In a statement released on Friday, January 16, the embassy urged U.S. citizens to exercise caution, avoid large public gatherings, and limit unnecessary movements.
“Uganda held presidential elections on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Official results are pending. There are reports of security forces using teargas and firing into the air to disperse gatherings,” the advisory read.
The embassy also advised Americans to monitor local media, avoid demonstrations, remain vigilant, carry proper identification, and ensure their mobile phones are fully charged with emergency contacts readily available.
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