KAMPALA, Uganda — Early results from Uganda’s presidential election show incumbent Yoweri Museveni with a significant lead, though the vote has been marred by an internet blackout, allegations of fraud, and reports of fatal clashes between security forces and opposition supporters.
Based on tallies from nearly half of the nation’s polling stations, the Electoral Commission reported on Friday that Museveni has secured 76.25% of the vote. His primary challenger, pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine (Robert Kyagulanyi), currently trails with 19.85%.
A Besieged Opposition
While the official count favors the incumbent, the atmosphere in the capital remains tense. Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) party reported that the military and police have surrounded Wine’s home in Kampala.
- The Claim: NUP officials state Wine is effectively under house arrest.
- The Rebuttal: Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke told reporters he was “not aware” of any such restriction on the candidate’s movement.
Wine has already denounced the election, alleging “massive fraud.” This follows a campaign season that the United Nations human rights office characterized as an environment of “widespread repression and intimidation.”
Reports of Lethal Violence
Despite a lack of large-scale demonstrations during voting hours, reports of overnight violence have emerged from Butambala, located roughly 55km southwest of the capital.
Accounts of the incident differ sharply:
- Activists: Human rights activist Agather Atuhaire reported that security forces killed at least 10 opposition supporters gathered at the home of MP Muwanga Kivumbi.
- Police: Local authorities disputed this, claiming they acted in self-defense against “goons” armed with machetes and axes who attempted to attack a police station.
Historical Context and Barriers
Museveni, who has held power since 1986, is seeking a seventh term in office. If the current trend holds, he will extend his 35-year reign, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
The election was plagued by several logistical and democratic hurdles:
- Internet Blackout: The government cut off web access across the country, a move criticized by international institutions as a barrier to transparency.
- Polling Delays: Some stations opened up to four hours late due to “technical challenges.”
- Security Crackdowns: Throughout the campaign, Wine’s rallies were met with tear gas and live ammunition, resulting in hundreds of arrests.
“I expect to win with 80 percent of the vote if there’s no cheating,” Museveni told reporters after casting his ballot on Thursday.
Uganda has not seen a peaceful transfer of presidential power since gaining independence from British colonial rule sixty years ago. With results continuing to trickle in, the international community remains watchful of whether the current tensions will escalate into further unrest.
