Ruto praises Uganda’s democracy while congratulating Museveni’s re-election

President William Ruto has formally congratulated Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni on his re-election, praising the vote’s “democratic maturity” in a statement that starkly contrasts with Kenyan public criticism and international scrutiny of the contested poll.

Through a statement on January 18, 2026, Ruto conveyed his best wishes to Museveni, whose electoral commission declared he had won a seventh term with 71.65% of the vote.

“Following the formal pronouncement of your re-election as the President of the Republic of Uganda last evening, 17 January 2026, 1 convey, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Kenya and my own behalf, my warm congratulations and best wishes to Your Excellency and to the great people of Uganda,” part of his statement read.

Ruto said the decisive victory reflected the trust that the people of the Republic of Uganda have in Museveni’s leadership.

“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.

Ruto also reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to its partnership with its East African neighbors.

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“I reaffirm the readiness of the Government of the Republic of Kenya to work with Your Excellency to advance our shared priorities,” Ruto added.

This swift diplomatic endorsement has triggered a wave of irony and criticism from Kenyans on social media platform X, where users have widely labeled Museveni a dictator and questioned the congratulatory message.

Many pointed to the stark contrast between Kenya’s own competitive political landscape and Museveni’s 40-year rule, which has been extended through elections frequently disputed by opponents and observers.

The Ugandan election held on January 15 was mired in controversy. Main opposition leader Bobi Wine has alleged massive rigging and called for peaceful protests, claiming the official results are illegitimate. The electoral period was marked by a nationwide internet shutdown, allegations of opposition agent abductions, and heavy security force deployment.

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