President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, leads the presidential election count in Uganda with 75% of votes from 59% of polling stations. Rival Bobi Wine denounces fraud and repression, as at least seven people have died in post-election riots. The opposition accuses authorities of de facto house arrest for the opposition leader.
Uganda's presidential elections, held on Thursday, unfolded amid heightened tensions. Yoweri Museveni, 81, seeking a seventh term after 40 years in power, secured 75% of votes with 59% of polling stations counted, compared to 21% for Bobi Wine, the 43-year-old singer and opposition leader whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi.
Museveni voiced confidence in an 80% victory after casting his ballot, warning of potential opposition tricks. "I know some opposition people are trying to cheat. But this time we will be very vigilant," the president stated, according to Reuters. Yet the electoral process faced numerous irregularities: internet shutdowns, biometric system failures preventing thousands from voting, and arrests of hundreds of Wine supporters.
The UN condemned an atmosphere of "repression and intimidation," with at least 750 opponents detained during the campaign. The National Unity Platform (NUP) reported that military and police surrounded Wine's home in Magere, near Kampala, setting up tents and imposing de facto house arrest on him and his wife.
Riots broke out that night across several areas, particularly in Butambala, 55 km from the capital. Authorities confirmed seven deaths and 25 arrests, blaming opposition attacks on police stations. The opposition claims ten fatalities, including one incident at a home awaiting results. Opposition candidate Muwanga Kivumbi denied police claims and told Reuters: "They killed 10 people in their home while waiting for the count".
Groups like the Pan African Solidarity Network called for global rejection of the results, citing a "state-sponsored repression campaign." Uganda, home to 50 million people in the Great Lakes region, has seen rising criticism of Museveni, who seized power in 1986 by ousting General Tito Okello. In 2021, he won with 58.6% amid irregularities such as stuffed ballot boxes in 400 stations.
