Museveni received the instruments of power — the Constitution, the National Flag, the Presidential Standard, the National Anthem, the National Coat of Arms, and the Public Seal — symbols representing the authority and sovereignty of the Ugandan state.
Under heavy security at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, President Yoweri Museveni officially took the oath of office for another five-year term, extending his rule over Uganda from 2026 to 2031 and marking the beginning of his seventh term in power.
The ceremony, presided over by Chief Justice Flavian Zeija, unfolded with the precision and symbolism expected of a state inauguration. Dignitaries, military officials, diplomats, and invited guests watched as Museveni, who has led Uganda since 1986 after the National Resistance Army captured power, renewed his constitutional commitment before the nation.
Standing before the crowd, the veteran leader first took the Oath of Allegiance, followed by the Oath of President, formally binding himself once again to uphold the Constitution and govern the country for another term.
Moments later came the ceremonial transfer of authority. Museveni received the instruments of power — the Constitution, the National Flag, the Presidential Standard, the National Anthem, the National Coat of Arms, and the Public Seal — symbols representing the authority and sovereignty of the Ugandan state.
In a powerful military display, the President was also handed the Instruments of National Defence by the Chief of Defence Forces, reaffirming his role as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.
Yet beyond the formal rituals, this inauguration carried several notable departures from tradition.
For the first time in many years, First Lady Janet Museveni was absent from the ceremony, prompting quiet speculation among attendees and observers. In her place, Museveni arrived accompanied by his daughter, Natasha Museveni Karugire, adding a more personal and family-centered image to the day’s proceedings.
The President also broke with another long-standing custom — his attire. Unlike previous inaugurations where he appeared in formal suits, Museveni chose a noticeably simpler look this time: a plain white shirt paired with black trousers. The understated appearance contrasted sharply with the grandeur of the military parade, ceremonial honors, and state symbolism surrounding him.
As Uganda enters another political chapter under one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, the inauguration reflected both continuity and subtle change — a familiar presidency presented with a different tone.
