Following the controversial re-election of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, President William Ruto has faced significant backlash on social media after sending a congratulatory message.

President Ruto shared the official statement shortly after Museveni was declared President-elect, sparking immediate outrage from Kenyans online.

The statement read, “Following the formal announcement of your re-election as the President of the Republic of Uganda yesterday evening, 17 January 2026, I convey—on behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, and on my own behalf—my warm congratulations and best wishes to Your Excellency and the great people of Uganda.”

President Ruto indicated that the decisive victory reflected the trust the people of Uganda have in their leader, who recently marked 40 years in power since the 1986 transition.

He further expressed a commitment to continued cooperation between the two neighboring nations.

The decision to congratulate Museveni opened floodgates of criticism from Kenyans online, Kondele News sampled a few of the comments from Kenyans online.

Benard Ballak: Now I have got a reason to shout ” ONE TAM”

Caleb Baraka Koyo commented, “On your behalf bro, not us”

Jimmy Junior wrote, “People marking ballot papers, then someone being congratulated…mimi nitoe”

Sumedocin Wanjala warned, “Tanzania had quarter finals, Uganda semifinals wait for finals here in Kenya.”

Davis wrote, “When it was raining knowledge, you carried an umbrella”