Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni, after securing a seventh term in office, characterized his political opponents as terrorists who allegedly attempted to disrupt the election results through violence. Museveni, 81, won the election with 72% of the vote, according to official results announced Sunday. The election, however, has drawn 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 nearly four decades. The election took place amidst a backdrop of heightened security measures and restricted internet access, leading to concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. International observers have expressed reservations about the environment in which the election was conducted, pointing to the disproportionate use of force by security forces and limitations on freedom of assembly for the opposition.
Wine has alleged widespread irregularities and fraud during the election. He has called for peaceful protests, but security forces have warned against any unauthorized gatherings. The government maintains that the election was conducted in accordance with Ugandan law and international standards.
The African Union and the East African Community sent observer missions to monitor the election. Their preliminary reports have acknowledged some irregularities but have not yet issued definitive conclusions regarding the overall credibility of the process. The internet blackout, which lasted for several days, raised concerns about the ability of citizens to access information and participate fully in the electoral process. The government justified the shutdown as a measure to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain public order. The United States and the European Union have expressed concern over the restrictions placed on the opposition and the media during the election period. They have called for an independent investigation into the allegations of fraud and irregularities.
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