On Saturday, Jan 17, Uganda's military hit back at claims that opposition heavyweight Robert Kyagulanyi – better known as Bobi Wine – had been abducted from his Kampala home. The denial comes as vote counting in the presidential election continued under a tense atmosphere, marked by an internet blackout and reports of violence. 🇺🇬🗳️
Wine, 43, said on Friday he was under house arrest after soldiers allegedly landed by helicopter at his residence and 'forcibly took' him away. Army spokesman Chris Magezi told AFP: 'The rumors of his so-called arrest are baseless and unfounded.' Fans say this feels straight out of a political thriller, and tensions are still running high. 🎬🔥
With over 80% of ballots tallied by Friday, President Yoweri Museveni, 81, appeared on track for another term. The Electoral Commission showed Museveni leading with 73.7% of the vote against Wine's 22.7%. Final results were due at 13:00 GMT on Saturday. ⏱️
Both camps accuse each other of foul play. Wine's team warns of 'massive ballot stuffing' and intimidation, while the United Nations human rights office says the election took place amid 'widespread repression and intimidation.' Independent verification has been tough due to the ongoing internet shutdown. 🌐🚨
Violence flared in several regions after polling day. In Butambala, about 55 km southwest of Kampala, local police report at least 10 people killed in clashes with machete-wielding groups linked to an NUP lawmaker. Authorities say they acted in self-defense, arresting 25 suspects.
As Uganda awaits the final tallies, this dramatic election highlights deep political divides and raises big questions about fairness. Will Museveni secure another five-year term, or can Bobi Wine pull off an upset? 🤔✨
Reference(s):
Uganda army denies Wine's abduction claims as Museveni eyes victory
cgtn.com
