Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni secured a victory in Thursday's election, extending his rule to a four-decade tenure, according to the election commission. Museveni garnered 72% of the vote, while his main challenger, Bobi Wine, received 25%, the commission announced.
Wine has denounced the results as "fake" and alleged "ballot stuffing," though he has not provided specific evidence to support these claims. Authorities have not yet responded to Wine's allegations. However, African Union election observers stated that they found "no evidence of ballot stuffing." Wine has urged his supporters to engage in non-violent protests.
Museveni, who is 81 years old, initially came to power in 1986 as a rebel leader and has since won seven elections. The electoral process was marred by violence, with Wine, a 43-year-old former pop star, claiming that at least 21 people have been killed in recent days. Authorities have confirmed seven deaths.
Simon Byabakama, head of the electoral commission, called on supporters from both sides to embrace unity and accept the election results. The BBC reported that Museveni's extended rule has been a subject of increasing debate within Uganda and internationally.
The election took place against a backdrop of restricted internet access and heightened security measures. Museveni's government has defended these measures as necessary to maintain order and prevent violence. The AFP reported that the election's outcome is likely to further polarize Ugandan politics.
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