Internet Restored in Uganda After 100 Hours as Key Post-Election Developments Unfold

After nearly 100 hours of nationwide disruption, internet services have officially been restored across Uganda, marking a return to digital communication following a tense general election period. The shutdown, which coincided with the 2026 elections, drew widespread concern from citizens, businesses, and human rights groups.

As connectivity resumes, several major political, social, and cultural developments have dominated national conversation. Below are the key highlights shaping Uganda’s post-election landscape.

Museveni Declared President for Seventh Term

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, has been officially declared the winner of the 2026 presidential election, securing a seventh term in office.

The declaration was made by the Electoral Commission, chaired by Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, after final tallying at the National Results Centre. Museveni garnered 71.65% of the total vote, translating to approximately 7.9 million votes, maintaining a commanding lead throughout the electoral process.

The victory extends Museveni’s leadership until 2031, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s longest-serving presidents.

Schools Reopening Postponed Over Election Safety Concerns

The Ministry of Education and Sports has announced a delay in the reopening of schools for the first term of 2026.

Originally scheduled for February 2, schools will now reopen on February 10, 2026. According to the ministry, the decision was taken to ensure the safety of learners and school staff amid post-election activities and security deployments across the country.

Parents and school administrators have been advised to take note of the revised calendar.

Bobi Wine Claims Escape From Raid, Rejects Election Results

Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has revealed that his home in Magere was allegedly raided by security forces on Friday night.

In a statement shared via Facebook, Bobi Wine claimed that electricity was cut, CCTV cameras were interfered with, and military helicopters hovered above his residence. He said he managed to escape the operation.

The National Unity Platform leader continues to reject the announced election results, citing alleged electoral malpractice, voter intimidation, and lack of transparency during the polling and tallying process.

Joshua Baraka Earns MOBO Awards 2026 Nomination

In a positive development for Uganda’s creative industry, Joshua Baraka, one of the country’s fastest-rising music stars, has received a nomination at the 2026 MOBO Awards.

Baraka is nominated in the Best African Music Act category, where he faces competition from some of the continent’s biggest musical names. The nomination marks a major milestone for Ugandan music on the global stage.

US Suspends Immigrant Visas for Uganda and 74 Other Countries

The United States government has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, including Uganda.

The decision was confirmed in a statement by the US State Department and follows a policy directive from President Donald Trump’s administration, announced on January 14, 2026. The move affects individuals seeking permanent residence in the US and has sparked concern among prospective migrants.

Uganda Enters Post-Election Phase

With the internet restored and election results declared, Uganda now enters a critical post-election period, marked by political tension, policy shifts, and renewed public discourse. As developments continue to unfold, citizens and observers alike remain watchful of the nation’s next steps.

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