KAMPALA, Uganda — The U.S. Embassy in Uganda has issued a security alert advising American citizens to exercise heightened precautions following the announcement of the presidential and parliamentary election results on Saturday, January 17, 2026, and the restoration of Internet service.
The Embassy urged U.S. citizens to avoid demonstrations and large crowds, maintain a low profile, and stay aware of their surroundings.
The alert emphasizes the importance of monitoring local media for updates and carrying proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a valid Ugandan visa.
Additionally, the Embassy recommended that Americans carry a charged cell phone and have emergency numbers programmed into their devices to ensure quick access to assistance if needed.
“U.S. citizens are encouraged to continue to exercise enhanced precautions and avoid any demonstrations,” the alert states.
The advisory comes amid heightened attention following Uganda’s recent elections, and the Embassy reminds citizens to remain vigilant while traveling throughout the country.
Security Alert for American Citizens:On Saturday, January 17, 2026, the Government of Uganda announced results of presidential and parliamentary elections and restored Internet service. U.S. citizens are encouraged to continue to exercise enhanced precautions and avoid any
-Uganda’s 2026 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections-
Uganda held its general elections on January 15, 2026, to elect both the president and members of Parliament.
The polls took place amid heavy security deployment, significant delays at polling stations and a nationwide internet blackout imposed by the government in the days leading up to and during the vote.
Authorities stated that the shutdown was intended to curb misinformation and potential unrest, but critics argued that it limited transparency and hindered communication.
The Uganda Electoral Commission announced that President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, had won a seventh term with approximately 71.65 % of the popular vote, extending his rule into a fifth decade.
His main challenger, opposition leader Robert “Bobi Wine” Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, garnered about 24.7 % of the vote, according to official results.
Controversy and allegations of irregularities marked the elections.
Opposition figures, including Bobi Wine, rejected the announced results, citing claims of “fake results,” ballot stuffing, and the failure of biometric voter machines, though some international observers reported no clear evidence of ballot stuffing while also denouncing intimidation and restrictions on opposition activities.
There were reports of violence and intimidation, including a raid on the opposition leader’s residence by security forces and clashes that left several people dead or injured in parts of the country.
The internet shutdown also disrupted communication, business transactions and mobile money services, contributing to uncertainty and heightened tensions around the vote.
