Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has been declared the winner of the country’s presidential election, securing a seventh term in office following a highly contested vote marked by violence, mass arrests, and a nationwide internet shutdown.
Museveni, 81, was announced victor with 71.65 percent of the vote, extending his grip on power to nearly 40 years. His main opponent, Bobi Wine, a 43-year-old musician, who turned opposition leader, garnered 24.72 percent.
Bobi Wine has rejected the election results, claiming he is now in hiding after security forces allegedly raided his home on Friday night.
He said he managed to evade arrest, but his wife and other family members were left under house arrest.
“I managed to escape from them. They are looking for me everywhere and I’m trying to keep safe,” Wine wrote on X.
Ugandan police have denied conducting a raid at Wine’s residence, stating that they only restricted movement in certain areas deemed security hotspots in order to prevent unrest.
However, residents living near Wine’s home reported a heavy security presence overnight, including drones and helicopters, fueling fear and tension within the neighborhood.
