KABALE, Uganda — The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has congratulated President Yoweri Museveni on his 2026 general election victory, describing the polls as the most peaceful in Uganda’s history. Gen Kainerugaba made the remarks on Friday, February 6, during the 45th Tarehe Sita anniversary celebrations in Kabale District, also commending citizens for exercising their democratic rights.
“I congratulate the people of Uganda on peacefully exercising your right in the just concluded presidential, parliamentary and local council elections,” he said.
“It is quite comforting that save for a few isolated cases, security was observed in most parts of the country through the electoral process. Voters went about the business of electing their leaders in a serene, calm and secure environment. As a consequence, the 2026 general elections are already being called the most peaceful elections on record.”
Speaking on President Museveni’s victory, Gen Kainerugaba, who also serves as Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, called it “well deserved” and “the most decisive election victory since 1996.”
“On my behalf, the officers of the UPDF, and the entire security forces of Uganda, I extend our profound congratulations to President Museveni on his well-deserved election victory,” he said.
Gen Kainerugaba expressed optimism about Uganda’s national development and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at achieving upper middle-income status.
“The people of the Great Lakes region also celebrated this victory because your visionary leadership is no longer only enjoyed by the people of Uganda, but transcends the borders of Uganda. We will steadfastly support you in your quest to transform the people of Uganda to upper middle income status,” he added.
During the celebrations, President Museveni praised the security forces for their role in maintaining peace during the elections. He revealed that a group had plotted to destabilise the process, but the prompt intervention of security agencies ensured stability nationwide.
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In recognition of his service, President Museveni awarded Gen Muhoozi a medal for his leadership in anti–Al-Shabaab operations and for commanding missions in Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia.
Major infrastructure announcements
President Museveni also announced plans to boost tourism and trade through airport construction. Businessman Amos Nzeyi has donated land in Kisoro for the development of a large international airport in partnership with the ruler of Sharjah, a United Arab Emirates emirate.
Additionally, the government plans to build a larger airport in Mbarara, projected to surpass Entebbe International Airport, to enhance trade with South America and China.
He reiterated Uganda’s ambition to progress from a lower-middle-income to a high-middle-income country, emphasizing that the nation has the capacity to achieve this growth.
The Tarehe Sita celebrations were attended by ministers, Members of Parliament, senior UPDF officers, and local leaders, reflecting the nationwide significance of the event.
