By Micah Jonah | January 25, 2026
Two United States Senators have called on President Donald Trump to take decisive action against Uganda following what they described as a flawed, undemocratic election on January 15, 2026.
Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Cory Booker condemned the Ugandan government under President Yoweri Museveni for the harassment of journalists, the illegal detention of opposition leaders, and the nationwide internet shutdown, which they said violated citizens’ rights to free expression.
In a statement, the Senators said:
“Uganda’s January 15th election was another blow to the pursuit of democracy in the country. Unfortunately, these elections mirrored previous contests, where the playing field was skewed, results were often decided well before the vote.”
They highlighted the prolonged detention of opposition figure Kizza Besigye, threats by Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba against opposition candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, and the use of tear gas against protesting citizens.
Shaheen and Booker, both members of the Democratic Party, urged the Trump administration and the US State Department to use all available tools, including reviewing US security assistance, to hold Ugandan officials accountable for undermining democratic principles.
The US Embassy in Kampala had earlier issued a security advisory warning American citizens to avoid large gatherings, citing reports of security forces dispersing crowds with tear gas and live ammunition.
Museveni was declared the winner of the election on January 17, extending his rule to over 40 years. According to the Electoral Commission, he secured 7,944,772 votes (71.61%), while opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, received 2,741,238 votes (24.72%). Out of 21,649,067 registered voters, 11,366,201 ballots were cast, representing a turnout of 52.5%, with 2.42% of ballots invalid.
The announcement reaffirmed Museveni’s dominance in Uganda’s political landscape, which has been shaped by heavy security measures and restricted access to communication platforms during elections.
