President William Ruto has congratulated Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni following his re-election, pledging Kenya’s continued cooperation with Kampala to advance shared regional and socio-economic priorities.
In a congratulatory message dated January 18, 2026, President Ruto conveyed the goodwill of the Government and people of Kenya after the formal announcement of President Museveni’s victory in Uganda’s General Election held on January 17.
“Following the formal pronouncement of your re-election as the President of the Republic of Uganda last evening, 17 January, 2026, I convey, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Kenya and my own behalf, my warm congratulations and best wishes to Your Excellency and to the great people of Uganda,” Ruto said.
He described the outcome of the election as a reflection of public confidence in President Museveni’s leadership and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.
“Your decisive victory at the just concluded competitive General Election reflects the trust that the people of the Republic of Uganda have in your personal leadership and the confidence enjoyed by the NRM party,” Ruto said.
He added that he was certain Museveni’s re-election reinvigorates his resolve to accelerate the transformation of the East African country.
The Kenyan President also commended Uganda for conducting what he termed a peaceful electoral process, noting that it demonstrated democratic progress.
“For undertaking a peaceful election, I sincerely commend the people of Uganda and all stakeholders in the electoral process, which attests to the democratic maturity of Uganda,” he said.
President Ruto underscored the long-standing relationship between the two neighbouring countries, describing it as rooted in deep fraternal bonds that continue to benefit both nations.
“Dear Brother, our two countries enjoy deep fraternal bonds which will no doubt benefit from your unwavering commitment,” he said.
He reaffirmed Kenya’s readiness to work closely with Uganda to promote shared interests, particularly in areas of socio-economic development.
“I reaffirm the readiness of the Government of the Republic of Kenya to work with Your Excellency to advance our shared priorities for the mutual socio-economic benefit of the citizens of Kenya and Uganda as well as our region and the continent,” Ruto stated.
The Head of State wished President Museveni success as he embarks on another term in office, describing the responsibility as both sacred and demanding.
“I wish Your Excellency success and good fortune as you embark on this sacred and high obligation,” he said.
The Ugandan Electoral Commission on Saturday announced Museveni President-elect for a seventh consecutive term.
This makes him the longest serving Ugandan president and one of the oldest heads of state alive.
