Several United States senators have publicly called on President Donald Trump and his administration to take action against Uganda’s ruling government following allegations of irregularities in the January 15, 2026 presidential election. The appeal from lawmakers in Washington highlights growing concern over democratic practices and human rights in Uganda.
Senators Condemn Uganda’s Election Conduct
In a statement released in late January, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Cory Booker criticised the conduct of Uganda’s recent election, which saw President Yoweri Museveni declared the winner of a seventh term with more than 70 % of the vote.
The senators described the vote as flawed and said it mirrored past contests where opposition parties faced obstacles, constrained media, and limited freedom of expression. They specifically flagged the nationwide internet blackout imposed ahead of the polls as a violation of citizens’ right to information.
Senators also highlighted reports of harassment and detention of opposition figures, including veteran politician Kizza Besigye and rights lawyer Sarah Bireete, along with alleged attacks on journalists covering the election period.
Call for Accountability and Policy Review
Rather than simply condemning the election, the lawmakers urged the Trump administration to take concrete steps. They called for a review of U.S. security assistance to Uganda and the use of diplomatic tools available to hold individuals and institutions accountable for undermining democratic norms.
The senators’ statement underscored that respecting human rights, ensuring free and fair elections, and upholding the rule of law are key expectations in U.S. partnerships abroad. They suggested that failing to address these concerns could challenge long-term cooperation between the two countries.
Broader Concerns Over Rights and Regional Stability
US lawmakers also criticized broader patterns in Uganda’s governance, including ongoing detentions, use of force against protesters, and opposition suppression. Separately, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch described Uganda as an “emerging exporter of instability,” warning that actions by authorities — domestically and in neighbouring countries — could undermine regional stability.
The senators’ calls come at a time when other voices, including human rights advocates and international watchdogs, have urged greater accountability for post-election violence and restrictions on civil liberties. Campaigns and petitions urging U.S. leaders to respond to alleged rights abuses have also gained traction online.
Response From Uganda’s Military Leadership
In response to the mounting international pressure, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s military chief and son of President Museveni, has publicly stated that if the United States imposes sanctions on Uganda or its leaders, Kampala would consider retaliatory measures in kind. The comment reflects rising tensions between Ugandan authorities and critics abroad.
What This Means Regionally
Uganda has historically been viewed as a strategic partner for the United States, particularly in counter-terrorism operations and regional security cooperation. However, calls from U.S. senators to reassess that partnership — including potential sanctions and diplomatic pressure — signal shifting dynamics that could affect cooperation in defence, development aid, and political engagement.
As debates continue in Washington and Kampala over the appropriate response to Uganda’s political climate, international observers are watching closely to see whether diplomatic pressure could lead to tangible policy changes or further strain relations between the two countries.
