Yoweri Museveni secured his seventh term as president of Uganda, winning the recent election with over 70% of the vote, according to state election authorities. The announcement followed an internet shutdown and allegations of widespread fraud by his main opponent, Bobi Wine, a musician-turned-politician.

Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, denounced the results as fabricated and claimed that polling staff were abducted, citing these and other irregularities as evidence of a flawed electoral process. He urged his supporters to engage in peaceful protests to demand the release of what he believes are the legitimate results. Wine also stated that he fled his home due to a security forces raid on Friday, with his party initially claiming he had been taken into custody.

Museveni, 81, has been president of Uganda for 40 years, making him the third-longest-serving non-royal national leader in the world. His extended tenure has been marked by periods of economic growth and relative stability, as well as accusations of authoritarianism and human rights abuses. Previous elections have also been marred by allegations of rigging and violence.

The Ugandan government has defended the integrity of the election, asserting that it was conducted fairly and transparently. Authorities have not yet responded directly to Wine's specific allegations of voter fraud and staff abductions. The internet shutdown, according to government officials, was implemented to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain public order during the election period.

The United States and the European Union have expressed concerns about the credibility of the election and called for an independent investigation into the allegations of fraud. International observers have also noted irregularities in the electoral process, including reports of voter intimidation and restrictions on media access. The outcome of the election and the ensuing protests could have significant implications for Uganda's political stability and its relations with international partners. The situation remains tense as Wine's supporters consider their next steps and the government maintains a heavy security presence in the capital, Kampala, and other major cities.