Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni, after securing a seventh term in office, characterized his political opponents as "terrorists" who attempted to use violence to subvert the election results. Museveni, according to official results, won the election with 72% of the vote. The election, held on Thursday, was immediately met with criticism from African election observers and human rights organizations, citing repression of the opposition and a nationwide internet blackout.

The whereabouts of opposition leader Bobi Wine, whose legal name is Robert Kyagulanyi, remained unclear following his claim on Saturday that he had evaded a police raid on his residence and was in hiding. Wine secured 25% of the vote. Police officials denied conducting a raid and asserted that Wine was at his home, while simultaneously preventing journalists from accessing the property.

Museveni's victory extends his rule to four decades, making him one of Africa's longest-serving leaders. The election took place against a backdrop of heightened security measures, including the deployment of military personnel and restrictions on public gatherings. The government defended these measures as necessary to maintain order and prevent violence.

The internet shutdown, implemented on the eve of the election, drew condemnation from rights groups and international observers who argued it undermined the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. The government stated the shutdown was a security measure to prevent the spread of misinformation and incitement to violence.

Wine, a popular musician-turned-politician, has emerged as Museveni's main challenger, attracting significant support, particularly among young Ugandans. He has repeatedly accused Museveni's government of rigging the election and using state resources to suppress the opposition. These claims have been denied by the ruling party.

The African Union and the East African Community deployed observer missions to monitor the election. Their preliminary reports have acknowledged some irregularities and called for investigations into allegations of electoral malpractice. The United States and the European Union have also expressed concerns about the conduct of the election and urged the Ugandan government to respect human rights and the rule of law.

The current situation remains tense, with heightened security presence in Kampala and other major cities. The long-term implications of the election outcome and the ongoing dispute over the results are yet to be seen.