The African Union has sparked debate after praising the conduct of Uganda’s recent general elections, describing them as consistent with the democratic rights of Ugandans. In a statement issued on January 18, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf credited the joint AU–COMESA–IGAD Election Observation Mission for ensuring a smooth electoral process.

Youssouf also commended Ugandans for maintaining peace and embracing democratic values, while congratulating President-elect Yoweri Museveni on his re-election with 71.61 percent of the vote cast on January 15, 2026. He further lauded former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan for leading the observation mission.

However, the AU’s stance has drawn sharp criticism online. Many observers accused the union of legitimizing a flawed process and ignoring opposition concerns of electoral irregularities. Critics argued that the statement shields authoritarian leadership rather than defending democracy.

Uganda’s Electoral Commission declared Museveni the winner with 7,946,772 votes, while opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, came second with 24.72 percent after rejecting the results as fraudulent.