Museveni sworn in for seventh term, names sweeping new cabinet

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has been sworn in for a seventh term, extending his rule of four decades after a landslide victory in disputed elections held in January.

Museveni took the oath of office at the Kololo Independence Grounds in the capital, Kampala, before thousands of supporters. The Electoral Commission said he won 71.65 percent of the vote, a result his opponents have rejected.

The new term, running to 2031, opened with a sweeping cabinet reshuffle. Museveni unveiled an administration to be made up of 81 ministers once approved by parliament, removing 28 from the previous government. The line-up included allies of his son, members of established political families and several surprise appointments.

His main rival, the musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, rejected the election results, alleging ballot-stuffing. The January vote took place amid a nationwide internet blackout and reports of intimidation and abductions targeting the opposition.

At 81, Museveni is among the world's longest-serving leaders, having held power since 1986. The reshuffle and the disputed mandate set the tone for a new term that critics say further entrenches his grip, even as economic and governance pressures mount.