The government has declared May 12, 2026, a public holiday to mark the swearing-in of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his seventh elective term in office.
The announcement was made by Richard Todwong, who said the day would allow Ugandans to participate in celebrations surrounding the inauguration ceremony.
High-profile inauguration expected
The swearing-in ceremony will take place at Kololo Independence Grounds, with approximately 40,000 guests expected to attend.
According to Todwong, the event will host an extensive list of international dignitaries, including about 35 heads of state and 30 diplomats. Delegations from several African liberation movements are also expected, among them the African National Congress, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, ZANU–PF, FRELIMO, and the Rwandan Patriotic Front.
Officials say the large turnout underscores Uganda’s longstanding ties with regional political movements and governments.
Nationwide prayers organised
In the lead-up to the inauguration, the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, has announced a series of nationwide prayers.
The prayers will be held across different faiths, beginning Friday in mosques, followed by Saturday services in Seventh-day Adventist churches, and concluding on Sunday in Anglican and Catholic churches.
Babalanda said the prayers are intended to unite the country and seek divine guidance as the nation enters a new political term.
Preparations for the inauguration are in advanced stages, with security, logistics, and protocol arrangements underway to accommodate thousands of local and international guests.