Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine was allegedly 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.
The alleged incident occurred hours after Wine claimed that security forces killed 10 of his campaigners. Wine has repeatedly alleged widespread fraud in the general election.
The election took place on Thursday, with Museveni seeking a sixth term in office after 35 years in power. Wine, a popular musician turned politician, has emerged as Museveni's main challenger, galvanizing young Ugandans with his calls for change.
The electoral process has been marred by violence and accusations of rigging. The government shut down internet access in the country on the eve of the election, a move criticized by international observers as undermining transparency.
Museveni's government has defended its actions, citing security concerns and the need to prevent the spread of misinformation. Authorities have also accused Wine of inciting violence and violating COVID-19 restrictions during his campaign rallies.
The United States and the European Union have expressed concerns about the credibility of the election and called for a transparent and peaceful process. Observers from the African Union are also monitoring the election.
The current status of Bobi Wine remains unclear. The NUP has called for his immediate release and urged the international community to intervene. The Ugandan government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations. The election results are expected to be announced in the coming days.
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