A senior Ugandan opposition member, Muwanga Kivumbi, stated that security forces stormed his residence early Friday morning and fatally shot 10 members of his campaign team. The incident occurred after a general election anticipated to extend President Yoweri Museveni's nearly 40-year rule.
Kivumbi, a member of the National Unity Platform (NUP), told Reuters that the attack happened around 3 a.m. local time. He said security forces forcibly entered his home by breaking down the front door and then opened fire inside a garage where his campaign staff were awaiting the announcement of the election results for his parliamentary seat. "It was a massacre," he stated.
Lydia Tumushabe, a local police spokesperson, said she was unaware of any incident at Kivumbi's house, which she described as being located near the police station. She alleged that machete-wielding opposition members organized by Kivumbi were responsible for violence.
The election took place amid concerns about fairness and transparency. Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is widely expected to win, further solidifying his position as one of Africa's longest-serving leaders. The NUP, led by musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, has emerged as a significant opposition force, challenging Museveni's dominance.
The reported attack on Kivumbi's home adds to the tensions surrounding the election results. International observers have raised concerns about the conduct of the election, including reports of voter intimidation and restrictions on opposition campaigning. The outcome of the election and the response to any potential challenges could have significant implications for Uganda's political stability and future. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the election results are finalized and announced.
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