Political landscape in Uganda is becoming increasingly volatile. President Yoweri Museveni, now 81, would like to renew his almost four-decade-long stay in power, amidst accusations of systematic repression and demonization. As the nation awaits final election results, Museveni’s party claims he is comfortably leading with 73.7 percent support, while his main opponent, Bobi Wine, has alleged incidents of “massive ballot stuffing” throughout the country.
President Yoweri Museveni has been in power since 1986. He seemed positive though going into the election, even saying that he plans to win 80 percent of the vote. In retrospect, it’s easy to see how the election campaign was doomed almost from the start. Violence broke out at opposition leads, and thousands of opposition supporters were arrested. UN Rapporteurs reported that this electoral process was marked by an atmosphere of “terror and widespread repression and intimidation.”
If voting proceeds well on Thursday, that is. Sadly, overnight unrest erupted in Butambala, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least seven people. Those who were forcefully removed painted a harrowing picture of violent attacks against their civilian communities from the armed forces. Kivumbi, who lives in the village, described the traumatic experience.
“After killing them, the military continued firing,” – Kivumbi
Bobi Wine, Uganda’s leading opposition figure and Museveni’s primary challenger in the election, has consistently criticized the current government. In a recent social media post, he challenged Ugandans to
“And they ensured that they removed all the evidence of the dead. You only have a pool of blood that is left here.” – Kivumbi
Wine’s calls for action come as he himself faces allegations of electoral fraud that he contends threatens to derail a democratic process. His campaign was met with immense adversity, including violent interruptions and intimidation tactics waged against his supporters.
“rise to the occasion and reject the criminal regime.”
Though votes are still being counted, final results are anticipated this Saturday afternoon around 4 PM local time. The outcome will not only determine Uganda’s leadership for the coming years but reflect the nation’s stance on political repression and democratic governance.
As votes continue to be counted, the final results are expected around 4 PM local time on Saturday. The outcome will not only determine Uganda’s leadership for the coming years but also reflect the nation’s stance on political repression and democratic governance.
