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 indicated 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 has presented evidence, including purported videos and witness accounts, to support his claims of ballot stuffing and voter intimidation. The Electoral Commission has refuted these allegations, maintaining that the election was conducted in a free and fair manner.
The reported abduction occurred hours after Wine alleged that security forces killed 10 of his campaigners. Details surrounding these alleged deaths remain unclear, and authorities have not yet issued a comprehensive statement.
Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is seeking his sixth term as president. The election has been marred by violence and accusations of human rights abuses. International observers have expressed concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.
The United States and the European Union have called for investigations into the reported irregularities and violence. They have also urged the Ugandan government to respect the rights of its citizens, including freedom of speech and assembly.
The current status of Bobi Wine remains unknown. The NUP has called for his immediate release and has urged the international community to intervene. The situation is ongoing, and further developments are expected in the coming days.
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