Museveni leads Uganda election with 76% of partial votes, as opposition leader Bobi Wine faces house security restrictions

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has taken a commanding lead in the country’s presidential election, securing 76% of votes from partial results released by the Electoral Commission on January 16, 2026.

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Opposition leader Bobi Wine followed with 20%, based on returns from 45% of polling stations.

The election, held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, was marked by heightened tension.

Security forces reportedly surrounded Wine’s residence in Kampala, prompting his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), to claim he and his wife were under house arrest.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke stated the heavy deployment was for Wine’s safety, describing him as “a person of interest” in the election.

Electoral Commission chairman Simon Byabakama confirmed vote counting continues despite a nationwide internet blackout.

He assured the public that final results would be announced by 16:00 local time on Saturday, January 17.

Byabakama explained that the commission used a private system to transmit results from districts to the national tally centre.

The campaign period was disrupted by violence and restrictions on opposition activities.

Voting delays occurred at many polling stations due to late ballot box deliveries and malfunctioning biometric machines.

While Wine alleged “massive” fraud, authorities have not responded to these claims.

Analysts noted that although six other candidates contested, the race was largely between Museveni, 81, seeking a seventh term, and Wine, 43, who positioned himself as the voice of Uganda’s youth.

Experts suggested Museveni is likely to extend his four-decade rule, citing his victories in six previous elections.

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Museveni has defended his leadership, arguing he remains the guarantor of stability and progress in Uganda, while Wine promised to address corruption and implement reforms if elected.