Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni surges toward victory in the 2026 elections with over 75% of early votes, while opposition leader Bobi Wine remains under effective house arrest amid security lockdowns and internet blackouts.


Uganda Presidential Elections: Observers Concerned About Internet Blackout & Media Bias

Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, has been approved by the Electoral Commission to run in the presidential election set for January, following an initial rejection of his candidacy a week earlier.

Pop-star turned politician Bobi Wine to contest Uganda's presidential poll

Uganda's main opposition leader Bobi Wine, who has emerged as the most formidable opponent of veteran President Yoweri Museveni, was shot in the leg by security agents in a northern suburb of the capital Kampala on Tuesday.

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine shot in leg by security officials

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine said Thursday he was under house arrest after being seized by security officials on his return home from a trip abroad.

Wine, a popstar-turned-politician who ran against veteran President Yoweri Museveni in Uganda's last election in 2021, has been arrested numerous times.

"They picked me illegally like you saw and as we speak right now I'm under house arrest. Soldiers and police are all over," Wine told journalists at his home north of the capital Kampala.

"As soon as I landed goons grabbed me, dragged me, twisted my hands and bundled me into a waiting private car. They drove me to the old airport where they pulled me out and put me in a military car with many soldiers and police officers.

"It was very humiliating," said Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi.&nbsp;

He also said that 300 of his supporters had been arrested, but did not give details and AFP was not able to independently confirm his claim.

Police denied Wine had been arrested, saying they had "escorted" the 41-year-old from Uganda's Entebbe International Airport to his home.

"We wish to inform the public that the NUP president, Hon. Kyagulanyi Robert was successfully escorted by our security team from Entebbe to his home in Magere," the Uganda Police Force said on X, formally Twitter.

"He reached his home around 11:20 am, and is with his family and friends. Disregard rumours of his arrest by propagandists."

A video posted by Wine's National Unity Platform (NUP) showed him being grabbed by security agents as soon as he stepped off the plane as a man shouted repeatedly: "Where are you taking him, where are you taking him."

Wine's supporters had planned to accompany him en masse to his home, but police had said such a gathering was illegal.

<h2>Rallies banned</h2>

Ugandan authorities have a long history of using so-called "preventative arrest" to detain opposition leaders, often holding them for several hours before returning them to their homes so as to stymie mass demonstrations.

Last month, Ugandan police announced they were banning rallies being organised by the National Unity Platform across the country because of public order issues.

Wine made a failed bid for the presidency in 2021 in a tense election against Museveni, who has ruled over Uganda with an iron fist since 1986.

The election campaign was marked by a crackdown on the opposition and at least 54 people were killed during anti-government demonstrations.

Wine flew in from South Africa via the Rwandan capital Kigali after a tour to promote a documentary about him by National Geographic TV entitled "Bobi Wine: The People's President."

His return was eagerly anticipated by his supporters, many of whom view him as a symbol of change in a country ruled for so long by one man.

Ugandan soldiers and other security forces had been deployed on roads leading to Entebbe airport since early Thursday morning, as well as outside NUP offices and in Kampala's central business district.

Police had warned organisers not to go ahead with the planned procession and for people not to join the gathering, with police spokesman Patrick Onyango describing it as an "illegality".

Once hailed for his commitment to good governance, former rebel leader Museveni has crushed any opposition and tweaked the constitution to allow himself to run again and again.

The next presidential ballot is due in 2026. Museveni, 79, has yet to say if he will stand.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine said Thursday he was under house arrest after being seized by security officials on his return home from a trip abroad. Wine, a popstar-turned-politician who ran against veteran President Yoweri Museveni in Uganda's last election in 2021, has been arrested numerous times.

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine said Thursday he was under house arrest after being seized by security officials on his return home from a trip abroad. Wine, a popstar-turned-politician who ran against veteran President Yoweri Museveni in Uganda's last election in 2021, has been arrested numerous times. "They picked me illegally like you saw and as we speak right now I'm under house arrest. Soldiers and police are all over," Wine told journalists at his home north of the capital Kampala. "As soon as I landed goons grabbed me, dragged me, twisted my hands and bundled me into a waiting private car. They drove me to the old airport where they pulled me out and put me in a military car with many soldiers and police officers. "It was very humiliating," said Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi. He also said that 300 of his supporters had been arrested, but did not give details and AFP was not able to independently confirm his claim. Police denied Wine had been arrested, saying they had "escorted" the 41-year-old from Uganda's Entebbe International Airport to his home. "We wish to inform the public that the NUP president, Hon. Kyagulanyi Robert was successfully escorted by our security team from Entebbe to his home in Magere," the Uganda Police Force said on X, formally Twitter. "He reached his home around 11:20 am, and is with his family and friends. Disregard rumours of his arrest by propagandists." A video posted by Wine's National Unity Platform (NUP) showed him being grabbed by security agents as soon as he stepped off the plane as a man shouted repeatedly: "Where are you taking him, where are you taking him." Wine's supporters had planned to accompany him en masse to his home, but police had said such a gathering was illegal. Rallies banned Ugandan authorities have a long history of using so-called "preventative arrest" to detain opposition leaders, often holding them for several hours before returning them to their homes so as to stymie mass demonstrations. Last month, Ugandan police announced they were banning rallies being organised by the National Unity Platform across the country because of public order issues. Wine made a failed bid for the presidency in 2021 in a tense election against Museveni, who has ruled over Uganda with an iron fist since 1986. The election campaign was marked by a crackdown on the opposition and at least 54 people were killed during anti-government demonstrations. Wine flew in from South Africa via the Rwandan capital Kigali after a tour to promote a documentary about him by National Geographic TV entitled "Bobi Wine: The People's President." His return was eagerly anticipated by his supporters, many of whom view him as a symbol of change in a country ruled for so long by one man. Ugandan soldiers and other security forces had been deployed on roads leading to Entebbe airport since early Thursday morning, as well as outside NUP offices and in Kampala's central business district. Police had warned organisers not to go ahead with the planned procession and for people not to join the gathering, with police spokesman Patrick Onyango describing it as an "illegality". Once hailed for his commitment to good governance, former rebel leader Museveni has crushed any opposition and tweaked the constitution to allow himself to run again and again. The next presidential ballot is due in 2026. Museveni, 79, has yet to say if he will stand. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Uganda opposition leader Bobi Wine claims being put under house arrest

Uganda the main opposition says its leader Bobi Wine has been detained the party claims he was arrested.

Bobi Wine: The strongest challenger to President Yoweri Museveni

Lawyers for Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine filed a challenge in the Supreme Court on Monday against President Yoweri Museveni's victory in last month's election, claiming the poll was rigged.

The 38-year-old singer-turned-lawmaker came a distant second behind veteran leader Museveni in the January 14 vote that followed some of Uganda's worst pre-election bloodshed in years.&nbsp;

Medard Sseggona, one of Wine's lawyers, said "any election Museveni participates in can never be a peaceful election, can never be a free and fair election".

"We want nullification of the election. We do not want (Museveni) participating in any future election," Sseggona said outside the Kampala courthouse where he filed the petition.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-armed-forces-withdrawn-from-bobi-wines-house-after-court-orders-359482">&nbsp;Uganda: Armed forces withdrawn from Bobi Wine's house after court orders</a>

Museveni, a 76-year-old former rebel leader who has ruled since 1986, won a sixth term with 58.4 per cent of the vote, according to the latest updated count from the electoral commission.

Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, secured 35.1 per cent and slammed the vote as a sham.

Under the constitution, Wine had 15 days from the declaration of results by the electoral commission to challenge the outcome.

The Supreme Court must now rule on the petition within 45 days.

Losing candidates have sought unsuccessfully in the past to overturn Museveni's wins in court. One of Africa's longest-serving rulers, Museveni has won every election since 1996, almost all marred by allegations of irregularities.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-high-court-ends-bobi-wines-house-arrest-359241">Uganda: High court ends Bobi Wine's house arrest</a>

'Invaded polling stations'

Sseggona said "soldiers invaded polling stations" and stuffed ballot boxes with pre-ticket votes. Electoral registers were tampered with at other locations, he added.

"Museveni cannot be left to cheat and steal scot-free," Sseggona said.

Museveni, however, declared the election the cleanest in Uganda's post-independence history.&nbsp;

The run-up to the vote was marred by violence, and a sustained crackdown on government critics and Museveni's rivals.

In November, at least 54 people were shot dead by security forces loyal to Museveni during protests against one of Wine's numerous arrests.&nbsp;

The opposition leader was held under effective house arrest from polling day until a court ordered security forces end his detention last week.&nbsp;

Access to the headquarters of his political party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), has been blocked for about two weeks.

Security toughened

Security was beefed up across Kampala on Monday, with soldiers atop armored personnel carriers and police marching in the streets.

Uganda's deputy inspector-general of police, Major General Paul Lokech, said the additional security was due to protests threatened by elements aligned to the NUP.

The party denied the allegations, with Secretary General Lewis David Rubongoya saying it advocates for a "peaceful change of Museveni's government, and not through violence".

Civil society activists have criticised the parameters for challenging Ugandan elections, with judges only examining events on voting day and the declaration of results, without also taking into consideration the overall campaign period.

"The electoral jurisprudence narrows an election process to votes, numbers and statistics on declaration day making election petitions very difficult," independent election analyst Crispin Kaheru told AFP.

By law, Wine must prove to the court that any alleged irregularities affected the outcome of the election "to a substantial manner" -- a much higher burden of proof than in civil cases.

Ugandan courts do not "look at elections as a process but only at events on polling day and declaration day, which makes it very difficult to prove substantial effect of fraud wrongdoing," Kaheru said.

Lawyers for Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine filed a challenge in the Supreme Court on Monday against President Yoweri Museveni's victory in last month's election, claiming the poll was rigged.

Lawyers for Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine filed a challenge in the Supreme Court on Monday against President Yoweri Museveni's victory in last month's election, claiming the poll was rigged. The 38-year-old singer-turned-lawmaker came a distant second behind veteran leader Museveni in the January 14 vote that followed some of Uganda's worst pre-election bloodshed in years. Medard Sseggona, one of Wine's lawyers, said "any election Museveni participates in can never be a peaceful election, can never be a free and fair election". "We want nullification of the election. We do not want (Museveni) participating in any future election," Sseggona said outside the Kampala courthouse where he filed the petition. Also read| Uganda: Armed forces withdrawn from Bobi Wine's house after court orders Museveni, a 76-year-old former rebel leader who has ruled since 1986, won a sixth term with 58.4 per cent of the vote, according to the latest updated count from the electoral commission. Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, secured 35.1 per cent and slammed the vote as a sham. Under the constitution, Wine had 15 days from the declaration of results by the electoral commission to challenge the outcome. The Supreme Court must now rule on the petition within 45 days. Losing candidates have sought unsuccessfully in the past to overturn Museveni's wins in court. One of Africa's longest-serving rulers, Museveni has won every election since 1996, almost all marred by allegations of irregularities. Also read| Uganda: High court ends Bobi Wine's house arrest 'Invaded polling stations' Sseggona said "soldiers invaded polling stations" and stuffed ballot boxes with pre-ticket votes. Electoral registers were tampered with at other locations, he added. "Museveni cannot be left to cheat and steal scot-free," Sseggona said. Museveni, however, declared the election the cleanest in Uganda's post-independence history. The run-up to the vote was marred by violence, and a sustained crackdown on government critics and Museveni's rivals. In November, at least 54 people were shot dead by security forces loyal to Museveni during protests against one of Wine's numerous arrests. The opposition leader was held under effective house arrest from polling day until a court ordered security forces end his detention last week. Access to the headquarters of his political party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), has been blocked for about two weeks. Security toughened Security was beefed up across Kampala on Monday, with soldiers atop armored personnel carriers and police marching in the streets. Uganda's deputy inspector-general of police, Major General Paul Lokech, said the additional security was due to protests threatened by elements aligned to the NUP. The party denied the allegations, with Secretary General Lewis David Rubongoya saying it advocates for a "peaceful change of Museveni's government, and not through violence". Civil society activists have criticised the parameters for challenging Ugandan elections, with judges only examining events on voting day and the declaration of results, without also taking into consideration the overall campaign period. "The electoral jurisprudence narrows an election process to votes, numbers and statistics on declaration day making election petitions very difficult," independent election analyst Crispin Kaheru told AFP. By law, Wine must prove to the court that any alleged irregularities affected the outcome of the election "to a substantial manner" -- a much higher burden of proof than in civil cases. Ugandan courts do not "look at elections as a process but only at events on polling day and declaration day, which makes it very difficult to prove substantial effect of fraud wrongdoing," Kaheru said.

Ugandan opposition leader files election challenge in court

A day after the court ordered an end to the house arrest of the Uganda opposition leader Bobi Wine, soldiers have finally left the premises after days of standing guard outside his personal residence.

Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, had been under a house arrest in his Kampala residence since the start of the voting of this year's Uganda election, i.e. January 14.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-high-court-ends-bobi-wines-house-arrest-359241">Uganda: High court ends Bobi Wine's house arrest</a>

Now, after 11 days, forces have left the area. Earlier, armed soldiers and police officers were placed outside his property in the capital city and Wine's family members were also not allowed to leave the premises.

The security forces now withdrew on Tuesday, and the leader can now finally convene with the newly-elected MPs from his National Unity Platform (NUP).

This is the first time Bobi Wine has been able to convene the meeting since the Uganda elections took place.&nbsp;

Wine has accused General Museveni of voter fraud and has claimed that the recently-concluded elections to be rigged and has also alleged an attempt of a coup against him and locals of Uganda.

"I was put under illegal detention in my own house because General Museveni did not win," he told the MP and party supporters. "He is staging a coup against the will of the people of Uganda."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uganda-opposition-leader-bobi-wine-appeals-for-help-357724">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uganda-opposition-leader-bobi-wine-appeals-for-help-357724/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The armed forces were forced to leave the premises after the High Court ruled in favour of the petition lodged by Wine's legal team who claimed Wine's house arrest to be unlawful.

However, the Uganda government claimed the restrictions were simply preventive measures for Wine's own protection, and also to make sure no illegal protests take place during the election period.

Meanwhile, Wine has urged his supporters and Uganda locals to reject the election results as a sham and not let the reign of President Yoweri Museveni continue for another term. "We want Museveni out of office in less than a year," he said.

A day after the court ordered an end to the house arrest of the Uganda opposition leader Bobi Wine, soldiers have finally left the premises after days of standing guard outside his personal residence.

A day after the court ordered an end to the house arrest of the Uganda opposition leader Bobi Wine, soldiers have finally left the premises after days of standing guard outside his personal residence. Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, had been under a house arrest in his Kampala residence since the start of the voting of this year's Uganda election, i.e. January 14. Also read| Uganda: High court ends Bobi Wine's house arrest Now, after 11 days, forces have left the area. Earlier, armed soldiers and police officers were placed outside his property in the capital city and Wine's family members were also not allowed to leave the premises. The security forces now withdrew on Tuesday, and the leader can now finally convene with the newly-elected MPs from his National Unity Platform (NUP). This is the first time Bobi Wine has been able to convene the meeting since the Uganda elections took place. Wine has accused General Museveni of voter fraud and has claimed that the recently-concluded elections to be rigged and has also alleged an attempt of a coup against him and locals of Uganda. "I was put under illegal detention in my own house because General Museveni did not win," he told the MP and party supporters. "He is staging a coup against the will of the people of Uganda." WATCH| The armed forces were forced to leave the premises after the High Court ruled in favour of the petition lodged by Wine's legal team who claimed Wine's house arrest to be unlawful. However, the Uganda government claimed the restrictions were simply preventive measures for Wine's own protection, and also to make sure no illegal protests take place during the election period. Meanwhile, Wine has urged his supporters and Uganda locals to reject the election results as a sham and not let the reign of President Yoweri Museveni continue for another term. "We want Museveni out of office in less than a year," he said.

Uganda: Armed forces withdrawn from Bobi Wine's house after court orders

Uganda's High Court on Monday ended the house arrest of presidential election runner-up Bobi Wine.&nbsp;

Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulani, has been under de-facto house arrest at his home outside Kampala, since he returned after voting on January 14.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uganda-opposition-leader-bobi-wine-appeals-for-help-357724/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Justice Michael Elubu in his verdict said that Wine's arrest is "unlawful" and his right to liberty has been "infringed".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ugandas-opposition-leader-bobi-wine-says-military-raids-home-356972">Uganda’s opposition leader Bobi Wine says military raids home</a>

"The continued indefinite restriction and confinement of the applicant to his home is unlawful and his right to liberty has been infringed," Elubu at the court's Civil Division in Kampala said.&nbsp;

"Having found that the restrictions are unlawful it is hereby ordered that they are lifted."

George Musisi, one of the lawyers of Wine, told CNN that the court "held that the freedom to personal liberty is too crucial that it should not be restricted casually or indefinitely".

Ever since his arrest, heavily-armed security personnel is deployed outside Wine's property and his wife, Barbie, is also not allowed to leave the compound.

The US ambassador to Uganda last week was also not allowed to meet the pop star-turned-politician.&nbsp;

The Ugandan government had called the restrictions "preventative" measures for Wine's own protection and to prevent demonstrations against the presidential election

Wine, who won 35 percent of the vote, according to the official figures, argues that the election was rigged in favour of President Yoweri Museveni.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Uganda's High Court on Monday ended the house arrest of presidential election runner-up Bobi Wine. Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulani, has been under de-facto house arrest at his home outside Kampala, since he returned after voting on January 14.

Uganda's High Court on Monday ended the house arrest of presidential election runner-up Bobi Wine. Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulani, has been under de-facto house arrest at his home outside Kampala, since he returned after voting on January 14. Watch | Justice Michael Elubu in his verdict said that Wine's arrest is "unlawful" and his right to liberty has been "infringed". Also read | Uganda’s opposition leader Bobi Wine says military raids home "The continued indefinite restriction and confinement of the applicant to his home is unlawful and his right to liberty has been infringed," Elubu at the court's Civil Division in Kampala said. "Having found that the restrictions are unlawful it is hereby ordered that they are lifted." George Musisi, one of the lawyers of Wine, told CNN that the court "held that the freedom to personal liberty is too crucial that it should not be restricted casually or indefinitely". Ever since his arrest, heavily-armed security personnel is deployed outside Wine's property and his wife, Barbie, is also not allowed to leave the compound. The US ambassador to Uganda last week was also not allowed to meet the pop star-turned-politician. The Ugandan government had called the restrictions "preventative" measures for Wine's own protection and to prevent demonstrations against the presidential election Wine, who won 35 percent of the vote, according to the official figures, argues that the election was rigged in favour of President Yoweri Museveni.

Uganda: High court ends Bobi Wine's house arrest

Amid growing international concern about the recently concluded Uganda Presidential Election opposition leader Bobi Wine says that he is now worried for his life and has appealed for help.

Uganda opposition leader Bobi Wine appeals for help

Uganda's government spokesman on Tuesday accused the US ambassador of breaching diplomatic norms and engaging in "mischief" over her attempt to visit opposition leader Bobi Wine, who is confined to his home.

The former popstar-turned-politician has been under effective house arrest guarded by soldiers and police, since he cast his ballot in last Thursday's presidential election, which he said was riddled with fraud.

US Ambassador Natalie Brown on Monday tried to meet with Wine — whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi — and was met with a line of police officers clad in riot gear who turned her away.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ugandans-are-voting-will-their-president-of-35-years-win-again-356989">Ugandans are voting. Will their president of 35 years win again?</a>

"The purpose of Ambassador Brown's visit was to check on Mr. Kyagulanyi's health and safety, given that he’s effectively been unable to leave his home, with security forces surrounding his residence," read a statement posted on the US Embassy’s Facebook page on Monday.

Wine, 38, came second in the presidential election, which returned Yoweri Museveni to power for a sixth term, and has said he is cut off from his lawyers and party as the days tick by for him to challenge the vote in the courts.

Government spokesman Ofwono Opondo said the attempt by Brown, who took up her post during Uganda's fraught election campaign, was a sign "that she is up to mischief".&nbsp;

"We expect her to write to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and to adhere to diplomatic norms. We don't think that a friendly country or someone who wants to help out in a difficult situation would act in this way," he told AFP.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uganda-opposition-leader-bobi-wine-appeals-for-help-357724">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uganda-opposition-leader-bobi-wine-appeals-for-help-357724/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It is the arrogance of the Americans, who think they rule the world."

The embassy of the United States said Uganda's election campaign had been "marred by the harassment of opposition candidates, campaign staff, and supporters; suppression of the media and civil society organization activities; and a nationwide internet shutdown before, during, and after voting day." &nbsp; &nbsp;

"These unlawful actions and the effective house arrest of a presidential candidate continue a worrying trend on the course of Uganda's democracy."

Asked if Wine was under house arrest, Opondo said he is "under the protection of the Uganda government" because he is the "target of many forces".

"It's in the interest of the Government of Uganda for him (Wine) not to be harmed in any way."

Uganda's government spokesman on Tuesday accused the US ambassador of breaching diplomatic norms and engaging in "mischief" over her attempt to visit opposition leader Bobi Wine, who is confined to his home.

Uganda's government spokesman on Tuesday accused the US ambassador of breaching diplomatic norms and engaging in "mischief" over her attempt to visit opposition leader Bobi Wine, who is confined to his home. The former popstar-turned-politician has been under effective house arrest guarded by soldiers and police, since he cast his ballot in last Thursday's presidential election, which he said was riddled with fraud. US Ambassador Natalie Brown on Monday tried to meet with Wine — whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi — and was met with a line of police officers clad in riot gear who turned her away. Also read| Ugandans are voting. Will their president of 35 years win again? "The purpose of Ambassador Brown's visit was to check on Mr. Kyagulanyi's health and safety, given that he’s effectively been unable to leave his home, with security forces surrounding his residence," read a statement posted on the US Embassy’s Facebook page on Monday. Wine, 38, came second in the presidential election, which returned Yoweri Museveni to power for a sixth term, and has said he is cut off from his lawyers and party as the days tick by for him to challenge the vote in the courts. Government spokesman Ofwono Opondo said the attempt by Brown, who took up her post during Uganda's fraught election campaign, was a sign "that she is up to mischief". "We expect her to write to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and to adhere to diplomatic norms. We don't think that a friendly country or someone who wants to help out in a difficult situation would act in this way," he told AFP. WATCH| "It is the arrogance of the Americans, who think they rule the world." The embassy of the United States said Uganda's election campaign had been "marred by the harassment of opposition candidates, campaign staff, and supporters; suppression of the media and civil society organization activities; and a nationwide internet shutdown before, during, and after voting day." "These unlawful actions and the effective house arrest of a presidential candidate continue a worrying trend on the course of Uganda's democracy." Asked if Wine was under house arrest, Opondo said he is "under the protection of the Uganda government" because he is the "target of many forces". "It's in the interest of the Government of Uganda for him (Wine) not to be harmed in any way."

Uganda slams US over attempted visit to confined opposition leader

The opposition party of Ugandan presidential challenger Bobi Wine said that police have prevented top officials from going to their headquarters in the capital, Kampala, as they prepare to launch a legal challenge to Wine's house arrest.

Uganda Presidential Election: Opposition leader's house surrounded by Army & Police

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine remains under "house arrest", his party said on Sunday, after a disputed election returned President Yoweri Museveni to office for a sixth term.

The former ragga singer turned lawmaker came second in the presidential election, and has said the process was marred by widespread fraud and violence.

He has not left his home since he went out to vote in the election on Thursday, and on Friday said he was under "siege" as soldiers and police surrounded his home, preventing anyone from entering or leaving.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ugandas-opposition-leader-bobi-wine-says-military-raids-home-356972">Uganda’s opposition leader Bobi Wine says military raids home</a>

"Our leader ... is effectively under house arrest," National Unity Platform spokesman Joel Ssenyonyi told a press conference, adding no one was being allowed access.

"His home is not a detention facility. We are very concerned about the state in which he is in, and his wife."

A Twitter update under Wine's account, written by an administrator as Uganda remains under an internet blackout for a fifth day, said the couple had "run out of food supplies."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It’s now four days since the military surrounded our home and placed my wife and I under house arrest. We have run out of food supplies and when my wife tried to pick food from the garden yesterday, she was blocked and assaulted by the soldiers staged in our compound. (ADMIN) <a href="https://t.co/MLEtSbyCcW">pic.twitter.com/MLEtSbyCcW</a>
— BOBI WINE (@HEBobiwine) <a href="https://twitter.com/HEBobiwine/status/1350742076430888960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The party said prominent MP, Francis Zaake, who had been arrested during an attempted visit to Wine's house on Friday, had been admitted to hospital "badly beaten and brutalised" by security forces.

Ugandan officials have said the soldiers and police were there for Wine's own security.

'Minority clique'

Wine and his NUP have yet to outline their next steps after dismissing the election as a "complete sham".

"Once again, a minority clique is forcing themselves on the majority of Uganda. That is something that we are going to resist. It is something that we are going to say no to using every avenue provided for within the law," said Ssenyonyi.

Museveni, 76, has ruled Uganda without pause since seizing control in 1986, when he helped to end years of tyranny under Idi Amin and Milton Obote.

Once hailed for his commitment to good governance, the former rebel leader has crushed any opposition and tweaked the constitution to allow himself to run again and again.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ugandas-president-yoweri-museveni-wins-6th-term-in-office-amid-allegations-of-rigged-election-357201">WATCH|</a>

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His re-election with 58.6 per cent of the vote, to Wine's 34.8 per cent, came after the most violent election campaign in recent years, with the harassment of the opposition, media and deaths of scores of Wine's supporters.

Wine said there had been ballot-box stuffing, intimidation, and that his party's agents had been beaten and chased away during the election on Thursday.

However, Museveni has said it was the cleanest election in the country's history.

US State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus praised Ugandans on Saturday for voting "despite an environment of intimidation and fear".

She added that the US was "deeply troubled by the many credible reports of security force violence during the pre-election period and election irregularities during the polls".

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine remains under "house arrest", his party said on Sunday, after a disputed election returned President Yoweri Museveni to office for a sixth term.

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine remains under "house arrest", his party said on Sunday, after a disputed election returned President Yoweri Museveni to office for a sixth term. The former ragga singer turned lawmaker came second in the presidential election, and has said the process was marred by widespread fraud and violence. He has not left his home since he went out to vote in the election on Thursday, and on Friday said he was under "siege" as soldiers and police surrounded his home, preventing anyone from entering or leaving. Also read| Uganda’s opposition leader Bobi Wine says military raids home "Our leader ... is effectively under house arrest," National Unity Platform spokesman Joel Ssenyonyi told a press conference, adding no one was being allowed access. "His home is not a detention facility. We are very concerned about the state in which he is in, and his wife." A Twitter update under Wine's account, written by an administrator as Uganda remains under an internet blackout for a fifth day, said the couple had "run out of food supplies." It’s now four days since the military surrounded our home and placed my wife and I under house arrest. We have run out of food supplies and when my wife tried to pick food from the garden yesterday, she was blocked and assaulted by the soldiers staged in our compound. (ADMIN) pic.twitter.com/MLEtSbyCcW — BOBI WINE (@HEBobiwine) January 17, 2021 × The party said prominent MP, Francis Zaake, who had been arrested during an attempted visit to Wine's house on Friday, had been admitted to hospital "badly beaten and brutalised" by security forces. Ugandan officials have said the soldiers and police were there for Wine's own security. 'Minority clique' Wine and his NUP have yet to outline their next steps after dismissing the election as a "complete sham". "Once again, a minority clique is forcing themselves on the majority of Uganda. That is something that we are going to resist. It is something that we are going to say no to using every avenue provided for within the law," said Ssenyonyi. Museveni, 76, has ruled Uganda without pause since seizing control in 1986, when he helped to end years of tyranny under Idi Amin and Milton Obote. Once hailed for his commitment to good governance, the former rebel leader has crushed any opposition and tweaked the constitution to allow himself to run again and again. WATCH| × His re-election with 58.6 per cent of the vote, to Wine's 34.8 per cent, came after the most violent election campaign in recent years, with the harassment of the opposition, media and deaths of scores of Wine's supporters. Wine said there had been ballot-box stuffing, intimidation, and that his party's agents had been beaten and chased away during the election on Thursday. However, Museveni has said it was the cleanest election in the country's history. US State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus praised Ugandans on Saturday for voting "despite an environment of intimidation and fear". She added that the US was "deeply troubled by the many credible reports of security force violence during the pre-election period and election irregularities during the polls".

Uganda's Bobi Wine still under 'house arrest' after poll: Party

Uganda President Yoweri Museveni wins the 6th term in office after getting 58.6% of votes. After winning the 6th term Museveni said this is the most cheating free election since 1962. Opposition leader Bobi Wine alleges the election as widespread fraud.

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni wins 6th term in office amid allegations of rigged election

Ugandans voted Thursday in a hotly contested election that will decide whether President Yoweri Museveni wins a sixth term in office and continues his 35-year rule of the country or is unseated by one of 10 rivals, including a leading opposition candidate, Bobi Wine, a rapper-turned-lawmaker.

The vote has been unexpectedly competitive despite fierce government attempts to stifle the opposition — moves that have drawn global attention to Museveni’s autocratic rule.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Government authorities have arrested and beaten Wine repeatedly during the campaign, detained his campaign team as well as 600 members of his party and, the day before the election, forced his private security guards to withdraw from protecting his house, according to his lawyer, Bruce Afran.

Security forces have justified the arrests of Wine and other opposition leaders by saying such steps were necessary to enforce restrictions on political gatherings in order to curb the coronavirus pandemic. Uganda’s strict rules have kept confirmed, reported cases under 38,000, but human rights groups say the measures have been used as a pretense to crack down on critics.

The election is the fourth in the East African nation since multiparty politics was restored in 2005 — but by then Museveni had already been in power for nearly two decades.

In a campaign marked by violence, killings, arbitrary arrests and internet restrictions, observers will be watching for delays in ballot deliveries, voter intimidation and irregularities in vote tallying, along with possible unrest that could ensue in the coming days. The results of the election are expected late Saturday.

<h2>Who are the leading candidates for president?</h2>

More than 18 million voters have registered for the election, where they will cast ballots for presidential, parliamentary and local representatives. There are 11 presidential candidates vying for to lead Uganda over the next five years, and a candidate must win more than 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff.

Most prominent among them is the incumbent, Museveni, a former rebel who came to power in January 1986 and has since ruled the country with an iron grip. At 76, Museveni is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.

His main rival is Wine, a 38-year-old musician who was elected to Parliament in 2017. Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has long used his music to lament the state of the country under Museveni and aims to galvanize the youth vote to unseat him. During the campaign, security forces have beaten and tear-gassed Wine, and he was charged in court for flouting coronavirus rules.

In early January, he filed a petition with the International Criminal Court accusing Museveni’s government of authorizing a wave of violence against political figures and human rights lawyers — including attempts to kill him.

Other candidates in the election have also been targeted, including Patrick Amuriat, who is representing the Forum for Democratic Change party. Authorities have beaten and detained Amuriat in several instances, including the day he filed his candidacy papers in November.

Nancy Kalembe Linda, a former banker and news anchor, is the only female candidate running for president.

<h2>How has Museveni held on to power for so long?</h2>

Since Uganda’s independence from Britain in 1962, there has been no peaceful handover of power. When Museveni seized the reins in 1986, on the back of an armed uprising, he promised that his government would further the cause of competitive politics in a nation that had endured years of colonialism, and then dictatorship and lawlessness under the rule of both Milton Obote and Idi Amin.

But in the decades since, Museveni and the ruling National Resistance Movement have clung to power through politicized prosecution of opposition figures, while undermining independent media and civil society.

Museveni’s government has “insisted that its political opponents were ‘foreign agents’ funded by outsiders, that they were self-interested, that they were immoral and disposed against Ugandans’ interest,” said Derek R. Peterson, a professor of history and African studies at the University of Michigan.

Elections, when they have taken place, have been riddled with allegations of fraud and irregularities.

In 2018, Museveni signed a law that scrapped the presidential age limit of 75. Opposition legislators and lawyers challenged the amendment, but the Supreme Court upheld it in 2019.

<h2>How has the government tried to control the flow of information?</h2>

As voters cast their ballots Thursday, internet connectivity remained down across Uganda as the government ordered telecom companies to block access to social media platforms and online messaging applications.

Opposition candidates including Wine say they have been blocked by authorities from appearing on radio stations to speak to the public.

With limitations on public gatherings because of pandemic restrictions, “social media provided aspirants with a potential way of reaching a large number of prospective voters,” said Jamie Hitchen, an independent researcher who has studied the role of technology in African elections.

But the government quickly found ways to undermine their reach on those platforms, too. In December, the government asked Google to block 14 YouTube channels, mostly linked to the opposition. Museveni also announced this week that he had ordered Facebook to be blocked in the country days after the company took down fake accounts linked to his reelection campaign.

Since the campaigns kicked off in early November, journalists have also faced harassment and beatings from security forces as they covered opposition candidates. The authorities introduced stringent accreditation rules for reporters, and deported at least one foreign crew, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists, a watchdog group.

<h2>What are the main issues at stake?</h2>

For a long time, Museveni and his party have cast themselves as a bulwark against a return to the violence and political strife that shaped Uganda in the 1970s and ’80s. But with more than 75% of the population younger than 30, many young people no longer “live in the shadow of history,” Peterson of the University of Michigan said.

“They have different aspirations, different fears, and different ambitions” from voters in earlier times, he added.

Key among the concerns of younger people is the question of jobs. Around 700,000 Ugandans reach working age every year, but only 75,000 new jobs are created annually, according to the World Bank. Many are also frustrated by the corruption that has been rife in Museveni’s government for decades, and they yearn for better infrastructure and improved public services, including better education opportunities and affordable health care.

<h2>Was the vote expected to be fair?</h2>

Previous elections in Uganda have been dogged by irregularities along with reports of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation and voter fraud. Voters across the country have also previously been denied the ability to cast their ballots, with officials saying that their names were not found on voter registries. Ballots to opposition strongholds, including in the capital, Kampala, have also been delivered very late in the past.

The validity of this election is already being questioned after observers, including from the United States, pulled out because of lack of accreditation. There have also been reports of the failure of electronic voter identification systems because of the internet shutdown. 
&nbsp;

Ugandans voted Thursday in a hotly contested election that will decide whether President Yoweri Museveni wins a sixth term in office and continues his 35-year rule of the country or is unseated by one of 10 rivals, including a leading opposition candidate, Bobi Wine, a rapper-turned-lawmaker.

Ugandans voted Thursday in a hotly contested election that will decide whether President Yoweri Museveni wins a sixth term in office and continues his 35-year rule of the country or is unseated by one of 10 rivals, including a leading opposition candidate, Bobi Wine, a rapper-turned-lawmaker. The vote has been unexpectedly competitive despite fierce government attempts to stifle the opposition — moves that have drawn global attention to Museveni’s autocratic rule. Watch | Government authorities have arrested and beaten Wine repeatedly during the campaign, detained his campaign team as well as 600 members of his party and, the day before the election, forced his private security guards to withdraw from protecting his house, according to his lawyer, Bruce Afran. Security forces have justified the arrests of Wine and other opposition leaders by saying such steps were necessary to enforce restrictions on political gatherings in order to curb the coronavirus pandemic. Uganda’s strict rules have kept confirmed, reported cases under 38,000, but human rights groups say the measures have been used as a pretense to crack down on critics. The election is the fourth in the East African nation since multiparty politics was restored in 2005 — but by then Museveni had already been in power for nearly two decades. In a campaign marked by violence, killings, arbitrary arrests and internet restrictions, observers will be watching for delays in ballot deliveries, voter intimidation and irregularities in vote tallying, along with possible unrest that could ensue in the coming days. The results of the election are expected late Saturday. Who are the leading candidates for president? More than 18 million voters have registered for the election, where they will cast ballots for presidential, parliamentary and local representatives. There are 11 presidential candidates vying for to lead Uganda over the next five years, and a candidate must win more than 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff. Most prominent among them is the incumbent, Museveni, a former rebel who came to power in January 1986 and has since ruled the country with an iron grip. At 76, Museveni is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. His main rival is Wine, a 38-year-old musician who was elected to Parliament in 2017. Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has long used his music to lament the state of the country under Museveni and aims to galvanize the youth vote to unseat him. During the campaign, security forces have beaten and tear-gassed Wine, and he was charged in court for flouting coronavirus rules. In early January, he filed a petition with the International Criminal Court accusing Museveni’s government of authorizing a wave of violence against political figures and human rights lawyers — including attempts to kill him. Other candidates in the election have also been targeted, including Patrick Amuriat, who is representing the Forum for Democratic Change party. Authorities have beaten and detained Amuriat in several instances, including the day he filed his candidacy papers in November. Nancy Kalembe Linda, a former banker and news anchor, is the only female candidate running for president. How has Museveni held on to power for so long? Since Uganda’s independence from Britain in 1962, there has been no peaceful handover of power. When Museveni seized the reins in 1986, on the back of an armed uprising, he promised that his government would further the cause of competitive politics in a nation that had endured years of colonialism, and then dictatorship and lawlessness under the rule of both Milton Obote and Idi Amin. But in the decades since, Museveni and the ruling National Resistance Movement have clung to power through politicized prosecution of opposition figures, while undermining independent media and civil society. Museveni’s government has “insisted that its political opponents were ‘foreign agents’ funded by outsiders, that they were self-interested, that they were immoral and disposed against Ugandans’ interest,” said Derek R. Peterson, a professor of history and African studies at the University of Michigan. Elections, when they have taken place, have been riddled with allegations of fraud and irregularities. In 2018, Museveni signed a law that scrapped the presidential age limit of 75. Opposition legislators and lawyers challenged the amendment, but the Supreme Court upheld it in 2019. How has the government tried to control the flow of information? As voters cast their ballots Thursday, internet connectivity remained down across Uganda as the government ordered telecom companies to block access to social media platforms and online messaging applications. Opposition candidates including Wine say they have been blocked by authorities from appearing on radio stations to speak to the public. With limitations on public gatherings because of pandemic restrictions, “social media provided aspirants with a potential way of reaching a large number of prospective voters,” said Jamie Hitchen, an independent researcher who has studied the role of technology in African elections. But the government quickly found ways to undermine their reach on those platforms, too. In December, the government asked Google to block 14 YouTube channels, mostly linked to the opposition. Museveni also announced this week that he had ordered Facebook to be blocked in the country days after the company took down fake accounts linked to his reelection campaign. Since the campaigns kicked off in early November, journalists have also faced harassment and beatings from security forces as they covered opposition candidates. The authorities introduced stringent accreditation rules for reporters, and deported at least one foreign crew, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists, a watchdog group. What are the main issues at stake? For a long time, Museveni and his party have cast themselves as a bulwark against a return to the violence and political strife that shaped Uganda in the 1970s and ’80s. But with more than 75% of the population younger than 30, many young people no longer “live in the shadow of history,” Peterson of the University of Michigan said. “They have different aspirations, different fears, and different ambitions” from voters in earlier times, he added. Key among the concerns of younger people is the question of jobs. Around 700,000 Ugandans reach working age every year, but only 75,000 new jobs are created annually, according to the World Bank. Many are also frustrated by the corruption that has been rife in Museveni’s government for decades, and they yearn for better infrastructure and improved public services, including better education opportunities and affordable health care. Was the vote expected to be fair? Previous elections in Uganda have been dogged by irregularities along with reports of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation and voter fraud. Voters across the country have also previously been denied the ability to cast their ballots, with officials saying that their names were not found on voter registries. Ballots to opposition strongholds, including in the capital, Kampala, have also been delivered very late in the past. The validity of this election is already being questioned after observers, including from the United States, pulled out because of lack of accreditation. There have also been reports of the failure of electronic voter identification systems because of the internet shutdown.

Ugandans are voting. Will their president of 35 years win again?

Uganda opposition presidential candidate Bobi Wine says the military has “taken control” of his house after “it jumped over the fence”.

Bobi tweeted the news just hours after he alleged that Thursday's election was rigged and said "every legal option is on the table" to challenge the official results, including peaceful protests. He referred to himself as the "president-elect." 
 
<img alt="BOBI WINE" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3fc26207-e8e4-4605-87eb-71b230de56f8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/bobi-wine.JPG" /> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bobi-wine-vs-yoweri-museveni-who-will-become-ugandas-next-president-356521">Also read | Bobi Wine vs Yoweri Museveni: Who will become Uganda's next president?</a> 
 
"None of these military intruders is talking to us. We are in serious trouble. We are under siege," tweeted Wine, who was arrested several times during campaigning but never charged while dozens of party members were detained. He earlier said he feared for his life. 
 
Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni reported leading in early election trends

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ugandan-president-yoweri-museveni-reported-leading-in-early-election-trends-356973/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Wine has challenged President Yoweri Museveni who is looking for a record sixth term. But --- it won't be easy. The challenger has faced a series of arrests and violent attacks in recent months.

Even his supporters haven't been spared. In a recent tweet, Wine shared a video that allegedly shows --- a member of the campaign being arrested by the military.

Wine has also claimed --- that one of his supporters was shot dead in a raid. On Tuesday, Bobi Wine said he had been targeted with a raid too. The violence has caught the attention of the United Nations.

The Human Rights office expressed concerns last week, they called the arrest of opposition leaders worrying.

The Ugandan president's response was defiance. He accused the opposition of fuelling unrest and violating coronavirus regulations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Uganda opposition presidential candidate Bobi Wine says the military has “taken control” of his house after “it jumped over the fence”. Bobi tweeted the news just hours after he alleged that Thursday's election was rigged and said "every legal option is on the table" to challenge the official results, including peaceful protests.

Uganda opposition presidential candidate Bobi Wine says the military has “taken control” of his house after “it jumped over the fence”. Bobi tweeted the news just hours after he alleged that Thursday's election was rigged and said "every legal option is on the table" to challenge the official results, including peaceful protests. He referred to himself as the "president-elect." Also read | Bobi Wine vs Yoweri Museveni: Who will become Uganda's next president? "None of these military intruders is talking to us. We are in serious trouble. We are under siege," tweeted Wine, who was arrested several times during campaigning but never charged while dozens of party members were detained. He earlier said he feared for his life. Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni reported leading in early election trends Wine has challenged President Yoweri Museveni who is looking for a record sixth term. But --- it won't be easy. The challenger has faced a series of arrests and violent attacks in recent months. Even his supporters haven't been spared. In a recent tweet, Wine shared a video that allegedly shows --- a member of the campaign being arrested by the military. Wine has also claimed --- that one of his supporters was shot dead in a raid. On Tuesday, Bobi Wine said he had been targeted with a raid too. The violence has caught the attention of the United Nations. The Human Rights office expressed concerns last week, they called the arrest of opposition leaders worrying. The Ugandan president's response was defiance. He accused the opposition of fuelling unrest and violating coronavirus regulations. (With inputs from agencies)

Uganda’s opposition leader Bobi Wine says military raids home

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni took an early lead in the presidential election race, according to preliminary results released on Friday morning by the electoral commission.

With 13.6 per cent&nbsp;of votes counted, Museveni had won 1,536,205 votes, or 65.0 per cent, while main opposition candidate Bobi Wine had 647,146 (27.4 per cent), the commission said.

Wine, a singer-turned-lawmaker who has galvanized young Ugandans with his call for change, said in a tweet early on Friday that he was confident of victory despite "widespread fraud and violence" during the poll. He gave no further details.

Museveni, who has led the East African country with a population of nearly 46 million for 34 years, had not made any statement by 10:30 a.m. (0730 GMT).

On Wednesday, the government ordered an internet blackout until further notice, a day after banning all social media and messaging apps.

The election campaign was marred by deadly crackdowns by security forces on opposition candidates and their supporters.

Uganda's normally bustling capital Kampala was quiet on Friday, a public holiday after Thursday's poll, with shops mostly closed. Soldiers patrolled on foot in the rain in a suburb visited by Reuters.

Commission head Simon Byabakama assured the nation on live TV on Thursday evening after polls closed that results were arriving at the national tally centre despite the nationwide internet blackout.

"We are not using local internet to transmit our results, we are using our own system," he said, without giving details of that system. "Don't worry, results will come."

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni took an early lead in the presidential election race, according to preliminary results released on Friday morning by the electoral commission.

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni took an early lead in the presidential election race, according to preliminary results released on Friday morning by the electoral commission. With 13.6 per cent of votes counted, Museveni had won 1,536,205 votes, or 65.0 per cent, while main opposition candidate Bobi Wine had 647,146 (27.4 per cent), the commission said. Wine, a singer-turned-lawmaker who has galvanized young Ugandans with his call for change, said in a tweet early on Friday that he was confident of victory despite "widespread fraud and violence" during the poll. He gave no further details. Museveni, who has led the East African country with a population of nearly 46 million for 34 years, had not made any statement by 10:30 a.m. (0730 GMT). On Wednesday, the government ordered an internet blackout until further notice, a day after banning all social media and messaging apps. The election campaign was marred by deadly crackdowns by security forces on opposition candidates and their supporters. Uganda's normally bustling capital Kampala was quiet on Friday, a public holiday after Thursday's poll, with shops mostly closed. Soldiers patrolled on foot in the rain in a suburb visited by Reuters. Commission head Simon Byabakama assured the nation on live TV on Thursday evening after polls closed that results were arriving at the national tally centre despite the nationwide internet blackout. "We are not using local internet to transmit our results, we are using our own system," he said, without giving details of that system. "Don't worry, results will come."

Uganda's President Museveni has early lead in election, preliminary results show

Ugandans vote on Thursday in a presidential election pitting long-time leader Yoweri Museveni against an opposition galvanised by a popular singer despite a campaign marked by brutal crackdowns.

Reggae artist Bobi Wine, 38, is channelling the anger of many young Ugandans who say former guerrilla leader Museveni, now 76, is an out-of-touch dictator failing to tackle rampant unemployment and surging public debt.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-fears-of-rigging-ahead-of-polling-in-uganda-356527/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Museveni calls Wine an upstart who is backed by foreign governments and homosexuals and says his administration guarantees political stability and economic progress including much-needed hydropower dams and roads.

Campaign violence has surpassed previous turbulent elections, with scores killed when security forces cracked down on gatherings of opposition supporters. Opposition candidates, supporters and campaign staff have been repeatedly arrested.

The government says it is stopping illegal gatherings during the COVID-19 crisis. The opposition says the bans on rallies in some parts of Uganda are a smokescreen for repression.

"If you try to disturb the peace, you will have yourself to blame. The security forces, following the law, are ready to deal with any troublemaker," Museveni warned this week, dressed in a military camouflage jacket as he spoke on live TV.

Though Wine has the momentum of energized and aggrieved supporters behind him, Museveni remains the frontrunner to win with the well-equipped army and police behind him, analysts say.

There are 17.7 million registered voters in Uganda and polls will be open from 7 a.m. (0400 GMT) until 5 p.m. on Thursday. The first results are expected to come in by Saturday evening.

"Every bit of the security apparatus will be on the streets. Theoretically, that brings calm, but I think we know that just brings flashpoints," said a senior European Union diplomat.

Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has urged supporters to stay at polling stations after voting to observe tallying and to take photographs of the results sheets and upload them to an application, U Vote.

However, Ugandans reported problems accessing the internet on the eve of the election and internet monitor NetBlocks said the country was experiencing a nationwide blackout.

The internet problems came a day after Uganda banned all social media platforms and messaging apps until further notice.

Museveni apologised for the inconvenience but said Uganda had no choice after Facebook took down some accounts which backed his ruling party.

Birmingham University democracy professor Nic Cheeseman said many who want to heed Wine's call for change were too afraid.

"Previous surveys show that the majority of voters do not believe in change at the ballot box because Museveni is not prepared to leave," he said.

Aggrey Musasizi, 31, a motorbike taxi driver, told Reuters from his village in Uganda's west that he had left the capital Kampala for fear of violence, but he would still vote for Wine.

"It is high time we witnessed change in Uganda. We can't continue in the situation where some of us have seen only one president all our lives."

Ugandans vote on Thursday in a presidential election pitting long-time leader Yoweri Museveni against an opposition galvanised by a popular singer despite a campaign marked by brutal crackdowns.

Ugandans vote on Thursday in a presidential election pitting long-time leader Yoweri Museveni against an opposition galvanised by a popular singer despite a campaign marked by brutal crackdowns. Reggae artist Bobi Wine, 38, is channelling the anger of many young Ugandans who say former guerrilla leader Museveni, now 76, is an out-of-touch dictator failing to tackle rampant unemployment and surging public debt. Museveni calls Wine an upstart who is backed by foreign governments and homosexuals and says his administration guarantees political stability and economic progress including much-needed hydropower dams and roads. Campaign violence has surpassed previous turbulent elections, with scores killed when security forces cracked down on gatherings of opposition supporters. Opposition candidates, supporters and campaign staff have been repeatedly arrested. The government says it is stopping illegal gatherings during the COVID-19 crisis. The opposition says the bans on rallies in some parts of Uganda are a smokescreen for repression. "If you try to disturb the peace, you will have yourself to blame. The security forces, following the law, are ready to deal with any troublemaker," Museveni warned this week, dressed in a military camouflage jacket as he spoke on live TV. Though Wine has the momentum of energized and aggrieved supporters behind him, Museveni remains the frontrunner to win with the well-equipped army and police behind him, analysts say. There are 17.7 million registered voters in Uganda and polls will be open from 7 a.m. (0400 GMT) until 5 p.m. on Thursday. The first results are expected to come in by Saturday evening. "Every bit of the security apparatus will be on the streets. Theoretically, that brings calm, but I think we know that just brings flashpoints," said a senior European Union diplomat. Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has urged supporters to stay at polling stations after voting to observe tallying and to take photographs of the results sheets and upload them to an application, U Vote. However, Ugandans reported problems accessing the internet on the eve of the election and internet monitor NetBlocks said the country was experiencing a nationwide blackout. The internet problems came a day after Uganda banned all social media platforms and messaging apps until further notice. Museveni apologised for the inconvenience but said Uganda had no choice after Facebook took down some accounts which backed his ruling party. Birmingham University democracy professor Nic Cheeseman said many who want to heed Wine's call for change were too afraid. "Previous surveys show that the majority of voters do not believe in change at the ballot box because Museveni is not prepared to leave," he said. Aggrey Musasizi, 31, a motorbike taxi driver, told Reuters from his village in Uganda's west that he had left the capital Kampala for fear of violence, but he would still vote for Wine. "It is high time we witnessed change in Uganda. We can't continue in the situation where some of us have seen only one president all our lives."

Ugandan election pits reggae singer against long-serving Museveni

Bobi Wine has repeatedly been underestimated by government supporters and critics since he first ran for parliament.

Uganda polls: 'It is going to be a revolutionary election', says Presidential candidate Bobi Wine

The East-African country of Uganda is heading to a presidential election on Thursday. President Yoweri Museveni's 35-year long rule is being challenged.

Uganda gets ready for Presidential election, social media blackout ahead of polls

Uganda will choose its next president on Thursday. This is Uganda's most violent election. There is heavy security deployment on the streets of the African country.&nbsp;

After a chaotic and bloody round of campaigning, the world's attention is on singer-turned-lawmaker Bobi Wine.

Wine has challenged president Yoweri Museveni who is looking for a record sixth term. But --- it won't be easy. The challenger has faced a series of arrests and violent attacks in recent months.

Even his supporters haven't been spared. In a recent tweet, Wine shared a video that allegedly shows --- a member of the campaign being arrested by the military.

Wine has also claimed --- that one of his supporters was shot dead in a raid. On Tuesday, Bobi Wine said he had been targeted with a raid too. The violence has caught the attention of the United Nations.

The Human Rights office expressed concerns last week, they called the arrest of opposition leaders worrying.

The Ugandan president's response was defiance. He accused the opposition of fuelling unrest and violating coronavirus regulations.&nbsp;

Social media and big tech is playing a role in this election too.

Ahead of the polling, Facebook shut down several accounts linked to the Ugandan government. According to reports, fake accounts were being used to spread disinformation to voters.

The Ugandan government accused Facebook of interfering in the election.

Social media has been banned ahead of polling. But, the opposition wants voters to use technology. Bobi Wine fears the election results could be rigged. He has called on voters to record the declaring of results in their districts.

Uganda has never seen a peaceful transition of power. But this could be another level. There are fears that the results could trigger a fresh wave of violence. The government anticipates a backlash. There is a massive military presence across Uganda now. A move that could deter voters from coming out.

Uganda will choose its next president on Thursday. This is Uganda's most violent election. There is heavy security deployment on the streets of the African country.

Uganda will choose its next president on Thursday. This is Uganda's most violent election. There is heavy security deployment on the streets of the African country. After a chaotic and bloody round of campaigning, the world's attention is on singer-turned-lawmaker Bobi Wine. Wine has challenged president Yoweri Museveni who is looking for a record sixth term. But --- it won't be easy. The challenger has faced a series of arrests and violent attacks in recent months. Even his supporters haven't been spared. In a recent tweet, Wine shared a video that allegedly shows --- a member of the campaign being arrested by the military. Wine has also claimed --- that one of his supporters was shot dead in a raid. On Tuesday, Bobi Wine said he had been targeted with a raid too. The violence has caught the attention of the United Nations. The Human Rights office expressed concerns last week, they called the arrest of opposition leaders worrying. The Ugandan president's response was defiance. He accused the opposition of fuelling unrest and violating coronavirus regulations. Social media and big tech is playing a role in this election too. Ahead of the polling, Facebook shut down several accounts linked to the Ugandan government. According to reports, fake accounts were being used to spread disinformation to voters. The Ugandan government accused Facebook of interfering in the election. Social media has been banned ahead of polling. But, the opposition wants voters to use technology. Bobi Wine fears the election results could be rigged. He has called on voters to record the declaring of results in their districts. Uganda has never seen a peaceful transition of power. But this could be another level. There are fears that the results could trigger a fresh wave of violence. The government anticipates a backlash. There is a massive military presence across Uganda now. A move that could deter voters from coming out.

Bobi Wine vs Yoweri Museveni: Who will become Uganda's next president?

Uganda has never seen a peaceful transition of power, and the election campaign has been fraught with violence and intimidation.

Uganda: Presidential candidate Bobi Wine's big statement, says 'Lets this be a protest vote'

Days before high stake presidential election in Uganda, President Yoweri Museveni has been accused of systematic violation of human rights. Singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine has filed a report mentioning graphic details of some of the incidents.

Days before high stake presidential election in Uganda, President Yoweri Museveni has been accused of systematic violation of human rights. Singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine has filed a report mentioning graphic details of some of the incidents. The International Criminal Court has been asked to investigate the alleged violations. What is the current political climate in Uganda? Bobi Wine, who is Uganda's opposition leader, was violently dragged out of his vehicle by the police. He wore a helmet and a bulletproof vest saying he expected to be attacked at any time. He has asked the International Criminal Court to investigate incumbent president Yoweri Museveni. According to Bobie, Museveni trying to crush the opposition with every trick in the book like tear gas, midnight arrests, threats and intimidation. Ugandans say they're accustomed to heavy-handedness. But even by their standards, the crackdown ahead of the election has been described as extreme. Journalists face attacks, lawyers face jail terms, and election officials face persecution. The president's desperate attempts to stay in power have shocked Uganda's allies even the United States of America. The latest 41-page document highlights chilling incidents of human rights abuses. In November 2020, at least 54 people were killed in Kampala as security forces put down a riot provoked by the arrest of Bobi Wine. His campaign was accused of violating coronavirus regulations. The govt reportedly issued a shoot to kill orders against protesters. There are graphic details of activists being tortured using hot metal plates and venom. In one case, a detainee was allegedly forced to watch as an activist's eyes were gouged out. 76-year-old Yoweri Museveni is determined to hold on to power so much so that in 2017, he pushed the age limit for the president. He has been ruling the country for 35 years and he has no plans of stepping down. One report says Uganda's poverty has fallen from 60 per cent to 20 per cent during Museveni's time in power. But the world bank says that for every 700,000 people who reach working age in one year, there are only 75,000 jobs. Two-thirds of registered voters are under 30 years of age. Uganda is a young country being led by an old leader. Musician-turned politician Bobi Wine was a toddler when Museveni first became president. He used to sing love songs, but his music and perspective changed the day he faced police brutality. He paints Museveni as a dictator who does not understand the aspirations of young Ugandans. Despite facing multiple arrests and torture, Bobi Wine is determined to unseat Museveni.

International Criminal Court to investigate political climate in Uganda

Uganda's popstar presidential candidate Bobi Wine has been arrested. 38-year-old Bobi Wine is seeking to end the 34-year long rule of President Yoweri K Museveni. It's a David vs Goliath story. Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: Uganda's Presidential candidate Bobi Wine arrested

Uganda's popstar-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who is running for the presidency and challenging the 34-year-old rule of President Yoweri Museveni, has been arrested.

Take a look at this report which tells you why it's a David vs Goliath story.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"Fellow Ugandans, citizens of the world, as you can see, we have been hijacked here by the police and the military. Nobody is talking to us, they are just arresting people, beating people. We don't know what is happening, we don't know what is going to happen to us, the military has blocked us, nobody is talking to us, nobody is answering any question," said Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi in the last message before his arrest.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ugandan-presidential-candidate-wine-says-military-police-vehicle-killed-bodyguard-352985">Ugandan presidential candidate Wine says military-police vehicle killed bodyguard</a>

On December 30, Wine and his campaign team were arrested in Kalangala in central Uganda.&nbsp;

Images from the scene showed Wine surrounded by police officers and military troops armed with rifles.&nbsp;

The arrest followed weeks of violence, which Ugandan authorities blamed on Wine, but critics claim the government should be held accountable.&nbsp;

Critics say the government is unnecessarily cracking down on supporters on Wine as he is seeking to end the long rule of Ugandan president.&nbsp;

Museveni, 76, has been the president of Uganda since 1986 and his term is marred with conflicts, rebellions, political suppression and consecutive humanitarian emergencies.&nbsp;

He is seeking a sixth term in the presidential election that will be held on January 14.&nbsp;

Wine, 38-year-old, has become a lightning rod for opposition to Museveni and several young Ugandan see him as the one who will take their country out from poverty and unemployment.&nbsp;

His arrest has become a flashpoint as the protests have escalated and the tensions have reached a tipping point.

The consequences could be severe. 
&nbsp; 
"We have told you before and we continue to tell you that no amount of brutality, no amount of teargas, no amount of torture or pepper spray that is going to stop us," said Wine.&nbsp;

Uganda's popstar-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who is running for the presidency and challenging the 34-year-old rule of President Yoweri Museveni, has been arrested.

Uganda's popstar-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who is running for the presidency and challenging the 34-year-old rule of President Yoweri Museveni, has been arrested. Take a look at this report which tells you why it's a David vs Goliath story. Watch | "Fellow Ugandans, citizens of the world, as you can see, we have been hijacked here by the police and the military. Nobody is talking to us, they are just arresting people, beating people. We don't know what is happening, we don't know what is going to happen to us, the military has blocked us, nobody is talking to us, nobody is answering any question," said Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi in the last message before his arrest. Also read | Ugandan presidential candidate Wine says military-police vehicle killed bodyguard On December 30, Wine and his campaign team were arrested in Kalangala in central Uganda. Images from the scene showed Wine surrounded by police officers and military troops armed with rifles. The arrest followed weeks of violence, which Ugandan authorities blamed on Wine, but critics claim the government should be held accountable. Critics say the government is unnecessarily cracking down on supporters on Wine as he is seeking to end the long rule of Ugandan president. Museveni, 76, has been the president of Uganda since 1986 and his term is marred with conflicts, rebellions, political suppression and consecutive humanitarian emergencies. He is seeking a sixth term in the presidential election that will be held on January 14. Wine, 38-year-old, has become a lightning rod for opposition to Museveni and several young Ugandan see him as the one who will take their country out from poverty and unemployment. His arrest has become a flashpoint as the protests have escalated and the tensions have reached a tipping point. The consequences could be severe. "We have told you before and we continue to tell you that no amount of brutality, no amount of teargas, no amount of torture or pepper spray that is going to stop us," said Wine.

As Uganda's Bobi Wine is arrested, here's why it's story of David vs Goliath

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