At exactly midday, the National Flag was lowered at the Kololo Independence Grounds, officially marking the end of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s 2021–2026 term and signaling the beginning of Uganda’s presidential inauguration ceremony for the new 2026–2031 term.
The colourful ceremony, attended by dignitaries, foreign heads of state, government officials, religious leaders, and thousands of Ugandans, was presided over by the Chief Justice of Uganda, Flavian Zeija.
Vice President Jesca Alupo, who served as the Master of Ceremony, welcomed guests and guided attendees through the inauguration program before inviting the Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission, Simon Byabakama, to officially commence the declaration process.
Justice Byabakama formally declared President Museveni the duly elected President of the Republic of Uganda following the 2026 general elections.
President Museveni then took two constitutional oaths administered by Chief Justice Dr. Zeija. The first was the Oath of Allegiance, in which he pledged loyalty to the Republic of Uganda and committed himself to protecting and defending the Constitution. The second was the Oath of President, through which he committed to faithfully execute presidential duties, promote the welfare of Ugandans, and uphold the laws of the country.
Following the swearing-in, Chief Justice Zeija handed over the instruments of power to the President. These included the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, the National Flag, the National Coat of Arms, and the Public Seal, symbolizing the lawful transfer and continuation of executive authority.
President Museveni also signed the required official protocols and documents necessary for the administration of the Office of the President.
In a symbolic military ceremony, the Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, handed over the Instruments of National Defence to the newly sworn-in President before a ceremonial 21-gun salute echoed across Kololo Independence Grounds in honour of the Commander-in-Chief.
The inauguration ceremony marks the beginning of President Museveni’s new five-year term running from 2026 to 2031.
