Ugandan Poll: Museveni Takes Early Lead as Bobi Wine Placed Under House Arrest
Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine was placed under house arrest on Friday, a day after presidential and parliamentary elections in which early results showed a commanding lead for President Yoweri Museveni, who is seeking to extend his four-decade rule.
With about 25 per cent of votes counted, Uganda’s Electoral Commission said Museveni was leading with 76.25 per cent of the vote, while Wine had secured 19.85 per cent.
Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, has faced accusations of harsh repression of opposition figures in the lead-up to the election. His government also imposed a nationwide internet blackout earlier this week.
Thursday’s voting was disrupted by major technical challenges, including the malfunctioning of biometric voter verification machines and delays in the delivery of ballot papers in several areas. The Electoral Commission said final results are expected by 0200 GMT on Saturday.
Analysts widely view the election outcome as largely predetermined, citing Museveni’s firm control of state institutions and the security forces, as well as his track record of suppressing political challengers.
Wine, 43, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has emerged in recent years as Museveni’s most prominent rival. The former musician, popularly known as the ghetto president, grew up in Kampala’s slum communities and has built a strong youth following.
Wine’s party, the National Unity Platform, said security forces surrounded his residence late Thursday, effectively placing him and his wife under house arrest. The party alleged that security officers entered the compound and began setting up tents within the premises.
Journalists who visited the residence on Friday reported a calm atmosphere, although several police officers and a military vehicle were stationed outside.
Security was heavy across the country on election day. The United Nations human rights office had earlier warned that the polls were being held in an environment marked by widespread repression and intimidation of opposition figures.
Wine accused the government of large-scale ballot stuffing and attacks on his party officials during the internet blackout imposed earlier in the week. His allegations could not be independently verified.
Uganda’s election continues to draw international attention as the country awaits official confirmation of the final results amid heightened political tension.
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