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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has moved to firmly defend his re-election by filing a formal response to a presidential election petition brought before the Supreme Court by former candidate Robert Kasibante. Through his lawyers, the President is asking court to dismiss the petition with costs and to affirm the results of the January 15, 2026 general election.

The response was physically lodged at the Supreme Court by Anthony Bazira and Usaama Sebuufu, who are representing the President. Museveni was declared winner of the polls and sworn in for a seventh term after securing a decisive majority across the country.

Reacting to the legal challenge, the Manager of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, welcomed the President’s decision to confront the petition through lawful means, describing it as a sign of political maturity and respect for democratic institutions.

“This is a true mark of a courageous and visionary leader,” Namyalo said. “Instead of intimidation or conflict, His Excellency has chosen the path of law and justice, showing the world that Uganda is a democratic state where institutions work. He is ready to answer every claim with evidence from the ground, because he was genuinely elected by Ugandans.”

Namyalo added that the ONC, together with party structures, stands ready to support the President’s legal team by providing facts and documentation, expressing confidence that the court process will ultimately uphold the will of the people.

Official results released by the Electoral Commission on January 17 show that Museveni garnered 7,946,772 votes, translating to 71.65 percent of the total valid votes cast. The figures marked an improvement from his previous election performance and further cemented the National Resistance Movement’s dominance in Uganda’s political landscape.

The presidential race attracted eight candidates. Robert Kasibante, who ran on the Peasants Party ticket, finished sixth with 33,440 votes. Dissatisfied with both the conduct of the election and the final declaration, Kasibante filed a petition on January 17 under Article 104 of the Constitution and Section 61 of the Presidential Elections Act. His petition, which runs into more than 1,000 pages, lists President Museveni, the Electoral Commission, and the Attorney General as respondents.

Kasibante alleges several irregularities, including the use of polling stations he claims were not properly gazetted and concerns over the deployment and use of Biometric Voter Verification machines during voting.

In his response, President Museveni has denied all the allegations. His legal team maintains that the election was conducted strictly in line with the Constitution and existing electoral laws, arguing that the claims raised in the petition are unsupported and should be dismissed in their entirety.

Previously, the Electoral Commission, chaired by Justice Simon Byabakama, described the election as “successful and generally peaceful.” While acknowledging that some biometric devices experienced technical challenges in certain areas, the Commission explained that legally provided alternatives, such as manual voter verification, were applied to ensure that eligible voters were not disenfranchised.

Voter turnout for the election was recorded at 52 percent. Museveni performed strongly in multiple regions, while his closest competitors included Robert Kyagulanyi of the National Unity Platform, who came second, Nathan Nandala Mafabi of the Forum for Democratic Change, and Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Gregory Mugisha Muntu of the Alliance for National Transformation.

Addressing the nation after the results were announced, Museveni said the outcome reflected “the strength” of the NRM and the confidence Ugandans had placed in his leadership. Supporters have credited his administration, in power since 1986, with restoring stability and driving long-term economic development.

The Supreme Court has yet to issue formal directions on when the petition will be heard. Under Uganda’s Constitution, presidential election petitions are handled within strict timelines, and the court is expected to communicate the hearing schedule in due course.

Museveni’s lawyers have reiterated their confidence that the petition will fail on its merits, insisting that the evidence before court confirms both the credibility of the electoral process and the clear mandate delivered by voters across the country.

KAMPALA– President Yoweri Museveni, through his legal team, has filed a formal response to the presidential election petition lodged by former candidate Robert Kasibante at the Supreme Court, categorically denying all allegations and requesting the court dismiss the case with costs.

The documents were physically submitted at the Supreme Court by lawyers Anthony Bazira and Usaama Sebuufu on behalf of the President, who was recently re-elected to his seventh term with an overwhelming majority.

Museveni secured 71.65 percent of the vote in the January 15, 2026 general elections, according to official results announced by the Electoral Commission on January 17. The President received 7,946,772 votes from the more than 11 million ballots cast, representing a significant improvement from his previous electoral performance.

The election saw eight presidential candidates compete for Uganda’s highest office, with Museveni’s National Resistance Movement demonstrating its continued dominance in Ugandan politics.

Robert Kasibante, who represented the Peasants Party and finished sixth in the race with 33,440 votes, filed his petition on January 17 under Article 104 of the Constitution and Section 61 of the Presidential Elections Act. His extensive petition, spanning more than 1,000 pages, names President Museveni, the Electoral Commission, and the Attorney General as respondents.

The petition challenges both the conduct of the election and the declaration of Museveni as winner, claiming the electoral process was marred by various procedural irregularities.

Among Kasibante’s central claims is the allegation that 15,256 polling stations representing nearly 30 percent of the total were not gazetted before polling day, yet were used for voting, counting, and tallying. He also raised concerns about the deployment and functionality of Biometric Voter Verification machines.

In his formal answer filed at the Supreme Court, President Museveni denies these allegations and maintains that the election was conducted in accordance with the Constitution and relevant electoral laws. The President’s legal team is seeking a full dismissal of the petition with costs awarded to the respondent.

The Electoral Commission, led by Chairman Justice Simon Byabakama, oversaw the election process. The commission reported that the election was “successful and generally peaceful”, though it acknowledged technical challenges with biometric verification equipment at some polling stations.

When biometric systems experienced difficulties, election officials implemented contingency measures, reverting to manual voter verification to ensure citizens could exercise their constitutional right to vote. The commission maintained that these adjustments did not compromise the integrity of the electoral process.

The President’s electoral performance reflected strong support across Uganda’s regions. Voter turnout stood at 52%, with Museveni demonstrating particularly robust backing in several key areas of the country.

Other candidates in the race included Robert Kyagulanyi of the National Unity Platform, who came in second place, Nathan Nandala Mafabi of the Forum for Democratic Change, and retired Major General Gregory Mugisha Muntu of the Alliance for National Transformation Party, among others.

President Museveni, who has led Uganda since 1986, emphasized the strength of his party and his mandate following the election results. Addressing the nation from his country home in western Uganda, Museveni said the result gave “a good taste of the strength” of his party, the National Resistance Movement.

His supporters credit him with bringing stability and economic development to Uganda over his decades in office, transforming the nation from post-independence turmoil into a regional anchor of peace and relative prosperity.

The Supreme Court has not yet issued directions regarding the hearing schedule for Kasibante’s petition. Uganda’s constitution and electoral laws provide specific timeframes for the resolution of presidential election petitions, and the court is expected to announce its procedural calendar in due course.

President Museveni’s legal team maintains confidence that the petition will be dismissed on its merits, affirming the legitimacy of the electoral process and the clear mandate given by Ugandan voters.

Musician Spice Diana has opened up about her lavish lifestyle, revealing that she spends millions of shillings daily—a revelation that has sparked heated debate online.

Speaking in an interview with a local television station, the singer confidently disclosed that her daily expenditure averages UGX 2 million, especially on days when she is performing.

“I spend about UGX 2 million every day. That is usually on a day when I have a show. When I am at home, not performing and without paying major bills, I still spend approximately UGX 1.5 million,” Spice Diana revealed.

The singer explained that her spending goes into maintaining her image as a top-tier artiste, including personal upkeep, logistics, food, transport, and general lifestyle needs.

Mixed Reactions Online

Her remarks have since ignited mixed reactions on social media. While some critics—especially online commentators—have accused her of extravagance and poor financial discipline, many fans and fellow artistes have praised her honesty and defended her right to enjoy the fruits of her hard work.

Supporters argue that maintaining celebrity status comes with high costs and that Spice Diana’s spending reflects the demands of her brand and career.

Spice Diana remains one of Uganda’s most booked and consistent female artistes, and her latest revelation further highlights the realities behind the glamorous life of stardom.

A group of politicians who failed to win NRM tickets in recent party primaries has opened official offices in Kamwokya, sending a clear message that losing an election doesn’t mean leaving the party.

The former candidates officially launched their offices on Thursday at Child Welfare Guest House in Kampala’s Kamwokya suburb, transforming themselves from disappointed office-seekers into ground-level party workers committed to delivering votes for President Museveni and winning NRM candidates.

Operating under the name NRM Patriotic Candidates 2025 for Buganda, the group says their decision to stay loyal rather than run as independents came directly from the President himself.

Hillary Katandikwa, who chairs the association, explained how President Museveni personally intervened to prevent the primaries from tearing the party apart.

“We were asked by His Excellency the President not to divide the party after primaries but to remain united and support our flag bearers,” Katandikwa said. “We listened, we mobilised, and today the results speak for themselves. NRM has registered a strong comeback in Buganda.”

Many in the group had seriously considered going independent after their primary defeats, according to Katandikwa, but ultimately chose patience over rebellion. “We decided to wait for our turn and strengthen the party instead of weakening it,” he added.

The decision appears to have paid off politically. Hon. Nakamya Fatiah, widely known as Suubi lye’Kawempe, contested for the Kawempe South Woman MP slot but lost. Rather than sulking, she joined the mobilisation machine that helped NRM recover ground it had lost in Buganda during the 2021 elections.

“In 2021, NRM was almost wiped out in Buganda, but this time we moved village to village, parish to parish, under Buganda Ku Museveni drive, telling people the truth about the party and President Museveni,” Nakamya said. “We are proud that Buganda has once again stood with the NRM.”

The “Buganda Ku Museveni” campaign that Nakamya referenced was coordinated by senior party figures including CEC member Haruna Kasolo and Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, with support from regional coordinators like those now running the Kamwokya offices.

Hon. Saul Kalwanga, who coordinates NRM activities in Greater Mubende, described the group’s role as broader than just presidential campaigning.

“We were fully involved in mobilising support for all NRM flag bearers, not just the presidential candidate,” Kalwanga said. “The President trusted us with this assignment, and we delivered.”

Hon. Uwamahoro Faridah Bigirimana, the Mubende District NRM Coordinator, pointed to the inclusive approach taken by senior party leaders as key to keeping former aspirants motivated.

“We were embraced by party leaders like Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, Hon. Haruna Kasolo, Hon. Robert Ndugwa Migadde of Buvuma, and many others,” Uwamahoro said. “They worked with us without discrimination, and that motivated us to give our best.”

At Thursday’s launch, the group essentially reported back to President Museveni that his orders had been followed and the mission accomplished across Buganda.

But the Kamwokya offices aren’t just about politics. The group announced plans to launch a SACCO as part of their organizational structure.

“This SACCO will help us mobilise resources, support each other economically, and remain active in community development as we prepare for future opportunities,” Katandikwa said.

The new offices will function as a hub for political organizing, voter engagement, and economic projects—a signal that these former candidates aren’t going anywhere, even if they’re not on the ballot this time around.

Real estate experts in Uganda have noted a growing trend of office and hotel developments spreading beyond Kampala, particularly into the districts of Mukono and Wakiso. According to market analysts, the oversaturation of office space in Kampala has pushed businesses to explore alternative locations within the Kampala Metropolitan Area, where most commercial activities take place.

A recent study showed that demand for high-quality office space in the capital increased by 4 percent, mainly in Class A and B properties that cater to high-income tenants and multinational corporations. Analysts suggest this trend reflects a broader shift in Uganda’s commercial real estate landscape, with peripheral districts emerging as viable alternatives to the city centre.

Industry observers also point to Uganda’s growing hospitality sector as a key driver of investment. By 2019, the country had over 3,800 hotel establishments with more than 250,000 rooms, predominantly owned by domestic investors. Real estate experts credit local business leaders, particularly Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, chairman of Ruparelia Group, with significantly expanding the nation’s commercial and hospitality infrastructure.

Among the group’s major ongoing projects is the Kabira Country Club expansion in Bukoto, Kampala. According to experts, the development includes squash courts, indoor and outdoor restaurants, a youth and business centre, conference facilities, pool-side apartments, a six-lane bowling alley, underground parking, and a luxury shopping mall. The project’s proximity to the Central Business District, schools, residential neighborhoods, and diplomatic zones enhances its commercial appeal.

Another significant project is the second phase of Kingdom Kampala, a mixed-use development in the heart of the city. Real estate consultants note that the project spans 16,500sqm of luxury hotel space, 40,000sqm of corporate offices, a 30,000sqm shopping centre, and residential apartments. Construction of the 200-room Kingdom Kampala Hotel, expected to be completed by 2026, is already underway.

The Pearl Business Park, developed on the former Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence site along Yusuf Lule Road, is also attracting attention. Experts describe the 18-acre facility as a mixed-use hub with plans for a 5-star hotel, shopping mall, and modern hospital, reflecting the growing trend of integrated commercial spaces in Kampala.

In the hospitality sector, joint ventures between government and private investors are also driving growth. The modern Convention Centre at Commonwealth Speke Resort Munyonyo, co-funded by the Ministry of Finance and Ruparelia Group, will host major international summits. Observers say the project demonstrates how public-private partnerships can accelerate infrastructure development in Uganda.

Additionally, the five-star Speke Resort and Convention Centre in Entebbe is set to feature a marina, convention facilities, and a three-winged hotel block with penthouse suites. Real estate analysts highlight the Ruparelia Group’s portfolio across Kampala and Entebbe, including properties under the Speke Group of Hotels such as Commonwealth Resort, Dolphin Suites, Forest Cottages, and recently expanded Speke Apartments.

Experts conclude that ongoing investments in office space and hospitality by leading local developers, combined with rising demand from businesses and tourists, position Uganda as a key real estate and investment destination in East Africa.

Business leader and philanthropist Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and his wife, Jyotsna Ruparelia, have sent New Year wishes to Ugandans as the country begins 2026.

In their message, the couple wished Ugandans good health, happiness, and success in the year ahead. They encouraged citizens to embrace new opportunities and remain hopeful as the nation moves forward into a new chapter.

The message reflected the Ruparelias’ strong ties to Uganda and their appreciation for the strength and determination shown by Ugandans over the years. They expressed optimism that 2026 will bring growth and positive change for families, communities, and the country as a whole.

Across Uganda, the New Year was welcomed with excitement and celebration. Cities such as Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, and Mbarara saw large crowds gather for fireworks displays, music events, and social gatherings.

Many Ugandans also marked the start of the year through overnight church services, where prayers were offered for peace, stability, and prosperity in the months ahead. In homes and neighbourhoods, families shared meals and reflected on fresh beginnings.

As Uganda steps into 2026, messages like the one from Dr. Sudhir and Jyotsna Ruparelia have strengthened the sense of hope and unity, with many citizens looking forward to a year filled with progress and opportunity.

Fresh violence linked to suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) fighters has left at least two civilians dead and several others injured in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, renewing fears over persistent insecurity in North Kivu Province.

The incident occurred on Thursday evening in Manguredjipa town, located in Lubero territory, as residents gathered to welcome the New Year. According to local sources, armed attackers entered the Katanga neighbourhood shortly after nightfall and began targeting civilians, forcing many families to flee in fear.

Local leaders said the attack caused confusion and panic, with people running for safety as gunfire rang out. Emergency response teams and security forces were later deployed to the area as wounded victims were taken for medical treatment.

A local administrative source, speaking on condition of anonymity due to safety concerns, confirmed that at least two people had been killed by Friday morning. Several others were reported to be in critical condition, and authorities warned that the number of victims could rise as search operations continue.

By the time of publication, the Congolese military had not issued an official comment on the attack.

The ADF, an armed group with roots in Uganda, has been active in eastern Congo for years and is responsible for numerous deadly assaults, particularly in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The group has publicly aligned itself with the Islamic State, which has claimed responsibility for some attacks, although independent verification remains difficult.

Despite ongoing joint military efforts by Congolese and Ugandan forces to weaken the group, communities in Lubero territory continue to experience regular attacks. Residents say violence often occurs at night or during public gatherings, leaving civilians feeling exposed and unsafe.

The latest attack highlights the ongoing challenge faced by authorities in restoring lasting security in eastern Congo, where armed groups continue to threaten civilian life despite sustained military operations.