Museveni Swearing In Set for May 12 at Kololo Grounds

Uganda is set to witness a major political event as President-elect Yoweri Kaguta Museveni will officially be sworn in on May 12, 2026, marking the beginning of his new five-year term.

The announcement was made during an official press briefing, confirming that the swearing-in and inauguration ceremonies will take place at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds from 8:00am to 2:00pm.

A Return to Leadership

Museveni’s re-election follows the January 15, 2026 general elections, where he secured 71.65% of the vote. According to officials, voters were largely influenced by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) manifesto, which emphasizes democracy, patriotism, Pan-Africanism, and socio-economic transformation.

Uganda has held regular elections every five years since 1996 under the 1995 Constitution, maintaining over three decades of what government officials describe as stable democratic processes.

Reflecting on 40 Years of NRM Rule

Government highlighted several achievements under NRM leadership over the past four decades, including:

• Sustained peace and national security
• Economic growth, with GDP expanding significantly despite global challenges
• Uganda’s graduation from Least Developed Country status in 2024
• Increased household incomes and reduced poverty levels
• Expanded electricity access and infrastructure development
• Improved healthcare outcomes, including higher life expectancy
• Growth in road networks and access to clean water

Officials say these gains influenced voters to renew their mandate for Museveni.

Theme and Preparations

The 2026 inauguration will be held under the theme:
“Protecting the Gains, Making a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status.”

Preparations are being coordinated by the National Organizing Committee led by Haji Yunus Kakande, under the supervision of Head of Public Service Lucy Nakyobe.

So far, 30 international delegations and representatives from revolutionary movements across the world have confirmed attendance. Local leaders, diplomats, religious figures, and the general public are also expected to attend.

Security and Public Engagement

Security across Kampala and the country has been heightened, with the Uganda Police Force leading operations, supported by specialized units including the UPDF and Special Forces Command.

Authorities have also rolled out a nationwide publicity campaign through media, social platforms, and digital screens across Kampala. Live broadcasts will be available on multiple television stations and online platforms.

Pre-Inauguration Activities

Several activities are lined up ahead of the ceremony, including:

• Release of the 2021–2026 NRM Manifesto evaluation report, which officials say achieved an 88% implementation rate
• Nationwide thanksgiving prayers scheduled from May 8 to May 10 across mosques and churches

A National Event

Organizers describe the ceremony as a historic moment and have encouraged all Ugandans to attend. Arrangements have been made to provide meals and drinks for attendees at the venue.

Citizens have also been urged to maintain peace, discipline, and calm throughout the celebrations.