Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni on winning a seventh term in office, which extends his 40-year rule.

Putin also expressed hope that Museveni’s re-election would boost “mutually beneficial” bilateral cooperation between Russia and Uganda. Russia is the first major global power to congratulate Museveni, though many African leaders had already done so. According to the final results, Museveni, 81, won 71.6% of the vote. His main rival, opposition leader Bobi Wine, won 25%, but rejected the results over alleged irregularities.

In power since 1986, Museveni is expected to rule until 2031, with supporters citing stability and economic growth. Critics accuse him of clamping down on basic freedoms and targeting opposition.