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 and political newcomer.
Wine condemned the results as "fake" and alleged numerous election irregularities, including the kidnapping of polling staff. He called for peaceful protests to demand the release of what he claims are the rightful results. Wine also stated that he fled his home on Friday to avoid arrest by security forces, who he said raided his residence. His political party previously claimed he had been taken into custody.
Museveni, who has been president for 40 years, is now the third-longest-serving non-royal national leader in the world. His extended tenure has been marked by periods of economic growth and stability, as well as concerns about human rights and political repression.
The election took place amid heightened security measures and an internet blackout, which the government attributed to security concerns. Critics, however, argued that the shutdown was intended to stifle dissent and prevent the dissemination of information about alleged election irregularities.
The United States and European Union have expressed concerns about the credibility of the election and called for an investigation into the allegations of fraud. The African Union has sent observers to monitor the election, and their report is expected in the coming days.
The current situation remains tense, with security forces maintaining a strong presence in the capital, Kampala, and other major cities. The government has warned against any unlawful protests, while Wine has urged his supporters to remain peaceful in their demonstrations. The next steps will likely involve legal challenges to the election results and continued calls for international scrutiny.
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