Museveni Takes Commanding Early Lead in Uganda Presidential Election

Provisional results from Uganda’s presidential election show incumbent President Yoweri Museveni maintaining a substantial lead as vote counting proceeds nationwide.

According to figures released by the Ugandan Electoral Commission at 11:35 local time, President Museveni has secured 76.25 percent of votes tallied thus far, representing approximately 3.9 million ballots.

His principal challenger, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu—widely known by his stage name Bobi Wine—has garnered 19.85 percent of the vote, equivalent to roughly 1.3 million ballots counted.

The current tallies are based on results from approximately 45 percent of polling stations that have been received and verified by electoral authorities.

Counting Continues Amid Internet Disruption

Vote tabulation is ongoing despite a nationwide internet shutdown that has limited communications across Uganda. The Electoral Commission continues to provide live updates from the National Tally Centre in Kampala, with media organizations permitted to observe and document the counting process.

Electoral officials emphasized that the figures remain provisional and subject to change as results from the remaining 55 percent of polling stations are compiled and verified.

What the Numbers Show

With nearly half of polling stations reported, Museveni’s significant margin suggests a commanding position in the race. However, election observers note that final outcomes can shift as votes from different regions are tallied, particularly from urban centers and opposition strongholds where results may still be pending.

The Electoral Commission has not announced when complete official results are expected to be declared.

Communication Challenges

The internet blackout has complicated efforts by independent observers and opposition parties to monitor the tallying process in real-time. Despite this limitation, electoral authorities maintain they are committed to transparency through their official tally center operations.

International observers and civil society organizations continue to monitor the counting process, though the communications shutdown has restricted their ability to coordinate and share findings across different locations.

President Museveni, 80, has led Uganda since 1986 and is seeking another term in office. Bobi Wine, a former musician turned politician, has emerged as his most prominent challenger, drawing significant support particularly among younger voters.

The Electoral Commission is expected to continue releasing updated figures as additional polling stations submit their results for verification and inclusion in the national tally.