Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has secured a seventh term in office after winning the national election with about 72 percent of the vote, according to the country’s election commission. The 81-year-old leader was officially declared the winner on Saturday in Kampala, defeating his main challenger, pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who received 24 percent. This victory extends Museveni’s rule into its fifth decade.

The election took place amid allegations of violence and vote rigging. Analysts said the result further consolidates Museveni’s political dominance, especially as speculation continues over his eventual successor. Bobi Wine rejected the results, alleging widespread fraud, and called on his supporters to protest. During the vote, the government shut down internet access, citing the need to curb misinformation. Wine later claimed soldiers raided his home and that he fled to avoid arrest, with sources saying he remains in hiding within the country.

Reports of post-election violence emerged across Uganda. Police said they fired in self-defense against opposition “criminals,” killing seven people, though a local lawmaker disputed this, alleging security forces killed at least ten at his residence.