Yoweri Museveni, aged 81, has been sworn in as Uganda's president once more. This marks his seventh term in office. He has now led Uganda for 40 years.

Museveni won elections in January 2026. Many observers say the elections were not fair. Opposition groups and international observers documented serious irregularities.

For LGBTQ+ people, this development is deeply concerning. Uganda ranks among the world's most dangerous countries for LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2023, Uganda enacted a stringent Anti-Homosexuality Act. This law made same-sex relations punishable by death in certain circumstances.

Museveni signed that law personally. He has publicly opposed LGBTQ+ rights on multiple occasions. He has called homosexuality 'unnatural' and resisted pressure from Western nations to repeal the law.

The Anti-Homosexuality Act triggered strong international condemnation. The World Bank suspended certain loan programmes to Uganda. The United States withdrew specific aid initiatives. However, Museveni maintained his stance.

Human rights organisations are seriously troubled about the coming five years. Groups including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International report that LGBTQ+ Ugandans live under constant threat. Many have been detained, assaulted, or displaced from their homes.

Some LGBTQ+ Ugandans have left the country seeking safety. They have pursued asylum in Kenya, the United States, and European nations. However, these journeys remain perilous and uncertain.

Within Uganda, activists continue operating discreetly. They offer assistance and refuge for LGBTQ+ individuals. Yet they undertake this work at considerable personal risk.

As Museveni enters a new term, prospects for legislative reform appear slim. Experts predict the political climate will likely grow more hostile. Additional laws targeting LGBTQ+ people and their supporters may emerge.

The international community faces a challenging dilemma. Should they engage with Uganda to encourage reform? Or should they intensify pressure through sanctions and aid suspension? Neither strategy has achieved meaningful results so far.

For LGBTQ+ Ugandans, the next five years under Museveni will mean continued fighting for safety, dignity, and fundamental human rights.