TROUBLE? Here’s What Top US Senator Wants Trump to Do Immediately to Museveni, Muhoozi Over ‘Hollow’ Elections, Bobi Wine

Tensions between Uganda and the United States could escalate after a senior American lawmaker called on President Donald Trump’s administration to take a tougher stance against the government of President Yoweri Museveni following the disputed 2026 general elections.

U.S. Senator Jim Risch, the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, described Uganda’s recent elections as a “hollow exercise” and urged Washington to review its security relationship with Kampala. 

He also called for consideration of targeted sanctions against General Muhoozi Kainerugaba over alleged human rights violations and concerns about regional stability.

Museveni was declared winner of the election with 7,946,772 votes, representing 71.65 percent. His main challenger, National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, secured 2,741,238 votes, or 24.72 percent. 

However, Kyagulanyi rejected the results, citing widespread irregularities and intimidation during the electoral process.

Another presidential candidate, Robert Kasibante, also filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the outcome, arguing that the election was marred by illegalities and electoral offences.

In a strongly worded statement, Senator Risch said Uganda’s political direction was raising serious concerns within U.S. foreign policy circles.

“Uganda’s elections were staged to legitimize President Museveni’s continued rule after four decades in power,” Risch stated.

He added that the government’s approach to political control—through arrests, intimidation, and restrictions on opponents—was undermining democratic principles.

The senator further warned that Uganda’s actions could affect stability in the wider region, particularly as other countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia prepare for major elections. 

While acknowledging Uganda’s importance as a regional security partner to the United States, Risch cautioned that continued cooperation could become difficult if the political situation does not improve.

He specifically asked the Trump administration to review whether sanctions could be imposed on individuals, including Muhoozi Kainerugaba, under existing U.S. legal authorities.

The call comes amid heightened tensions in Uganda following the elections. Bobi Wine has reported increased security pressure, including a raid on his home by security forces shortly after the results were announced. 

The opposition leader has remained defiant despite reports that he was given an ultimatum to surrender.

At the same time, several senior NUP officials are facing legal and security challenges. Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, the party’s deputy president for Buganda, has been charged with terrorism in connection with alleged attacks on police stations and Electoral Commission offices in Butambala District. 

The incidents reportedly left seven people dead and caused significant property damage. Kivumbi has been remanded to Kitalya Prison as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about the whereabouts of Dr. Lina Zedriga, the NUP deputy president for Northern Uganda.

 Her family claims she was arrested by security personnel in mid-January, but the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has denied any involvement, stating there is no record of her detention.

The developments highlight the growing pressure on the opposition in the aftermath of the election, even as the government maintains that its actions are aimed at preserving national security and public order.

Analysts say Senator Risch’s remarks signal possible diplomatic strain ahead, especially if Washington moves forward with sanctions or reviews military and security cooperation.

With Uganda remaining a key strategic partner in regional peacekeeping and counter-terrorism efforts, any shift in U.S. policy could have significant political and economic implications for Kampala.