Museveni Wins Uganda Election as Opposition Leader Disappears
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has secured another term in office after being declared the winner of the country’s presidential election, extending his rule to nearly four decades amid claims of vote manipulation and heavy security measures.
The Electoral Commission announced in Kampala that Museveni won close to 72% of the vote. His closest opponent, opposition leader Bobi Wine, received about 24%, according to the official count.
Museveni, 81, has governed Uganda since 1986 and has steadily consolidated power through constitutional changes that removed both term and age limits. His latest victory comes as public discussion intensifies over who might eventually replace him.
Opposition Disputes Outcome
Bobi Wine, the musician-turned-politician whose legal name is Robert Kyagulanyi, rejected the results and accused authorities of orchestrating widespread irregularities. The election was held during a nationwide internet shutdown, which officials said was imposed to prevent the spread of false information.
Following the vote, Wine reported that security forces raided his residence. In statements shared online, he said electricity was cut, surveillance cameras were disabled, and military personnel surrounded the property. Wine later stated that he escaped the operation and was no longer at home, while alleging that members of his family were being held under guard—claims that could not be immediately verified.
Deadly Incidents After Voting Ends
Violence was reported in parts of central Uganda after polls closed. Police said officers opened fire in self-defense during clashes with groups they described as linked to the opposition, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.
Opposition lawmakers disputed the official version of events, accusing security forces of killing civilians. Despite these reports, the country avoided the kind of widespread unrest that many had feared ahead of the results.
Criticism of Electoral Environment
Museveni’s victory was widely expected, given his long-standing control over state institutions. International observers and Western governments have previously raised concerns about Uganda’s electoral processes, including the 2021 election, which was criticized as neither free nor fair.
During the recent campaign period, opposition events were frequently disrupted by security forces, with reports of arrests, injuries, and at least one fatality linked to campaign-related violence.
Stability Claims and Succession Debate
Supporters of the president credit his leadership with maintaining stability in the region and fostering economic growth. Uganda’s role in regional security efforts and its acceptance of millions of refugees have also strengthened ties with Western allies.
Museveni has campaigned on preserving stability and promoting economic progress, with the country expecting a boost in growth once oil production begins.
Nonetheless, uncertainty remains over Uganda’s political future. Speculation continues that Museveni may favor his son, army chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as a successor—an assertion the president has repeatedly denied.
In a recent interview, Museveni dismissed calls to step down, arguing that his experience and knowledge remain valuable to the nation.
