The Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), General Muhoozi Kainerubaga, has congratulated Ugandans for concluding what he described as the most peaceful election in the country’s history.
Addressing the nation during the 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations held today at Kabale Stadium in Kabale Municipality, Kigezi Sub-region, General Muhoozi said Uganda has earned recognition from neighbouring countries and across the African continent for exercising its democratic rights in a largely peaceful manner.
He attributed the peaceful conduct of the elections to the visionary leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Departing from his usual remarks that focus on decorations and honours for serving and retired officers, General Muhoozi addressed election-related security matters.
He noted that although there were isolated incidents involving criminal elements in parts of Kampala, Jinja, Mbale and Butambala, dedicated UPDF officers acted decisively to contain the situation.
He added that many individuals involved in election-related violence have since been arrested, with some already on remand while others are awaiting arraignment before the courts.
President Museveni was declared the winner of Uganda’s presidential election on Saturday, extending his rule into a fifth decade.
According to the Electoral Commission, he garnered 72 percent of the vote, while his closest challenger, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, secured 24 percent in the January 15, 2026 polls.
On behalf of the armed forces, General Muhoozi pledged loyalty to the newly elected government for the 2026–2031 political term and reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s development agenda, including efforts to attain middle-income status.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including visiting defence officials from the Central African Republic, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This year’s Tarehe Sita celebrations were held under the theme: “Defending the gains of the revolution and honoring the sacrifices of the freedom fighters: A call for national unity, peace and socio-economic transformation.” President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni graced the occasion as the chief guest.
By Newsroom
6th Feb 2026
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