Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni won Thursday's election, extending his rule to a four-decade tenure, according to the country's election commission. Museveni secured 72% of the vote, while his main challenger, Bobi Wine, received 25%, the commission announced. Wine has rejected the results, alleging "fake results" and "ballot stuffing," though he has not provided specific evidence.
African Union election observers stated they found "no evidence of ballot stuffing." Wine has called for non-violent protests in response to the election outcome. Electoral commission head Simon Byabakama urged supporters of both Museveni and Wine to accept the results and embrace unity.
Museveni, who is 81, first came to power in 1986 as a rebel leader. Since then, he has won seven elections. The election 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.
The BBC reported that Museveni's long rule has been marked by both economic progress and concerns about human rights and political freedoms. His supporters credit him with bringing stability to Uganda after years of turmoil, while critics accuse him of authoritarianism and suppressing dissent. The AFP reported that the election took place amid heightened security measures, including an internet shutdown that lasted for several days.
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