Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine was taken from his residence by the army on Friday, according to his National Unity Platform (NUP) party, as President Yoweri Museveni appeared poised to win re-election. The NUP stated in a post on X that an army helicopter landed at Wine's compound in Kampala and forcibly transported him to an undisclosed location.
Confirmation of the NUP's claim was not immediately available, and some senior party officials stated they lacked verification. Reuters reported that spokespeople for the Ugandan government and military did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has alleged widespread fraud in the election. He cast his vote on Thursday as military and police surrounded his house, according to his party. Prior to Friday's events, Wine claimed that security forces killed 10 of his campaigners.
Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is seeking a sixth term. The election has been marred by violence and accusations of rigging. The government has defended its actions, citing the need to maintain security and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The United States and the European Union have expressed concerns about the credibility of the election and the human rights situation in Uganda. Observers have noted restrictions on freedom of assembly and expression during the campaign period.
The Electoral Commission is expected to announce the final results of the election in the coming days. The NUP has indicated it plans to challenge the results in court. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated.
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