Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni took a commanding early lead in Friday’s presidential election while opposition leader Bobi Wine was placed under house arrest, raising concerns over the fairness of the vote and ongoing repression.
With roughly 25 per cent of votes counted, the Electoral Commission reported Museveni leading with 76.25 per cent, compared with Wine’s 19.85 per cent, as the 81-year-old veteran seeks to extend his 40-year rule. Final results for the presidential and parliamentary elections are expected by 0200 GMT on Saturday.
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Thursday’s election was disrupted by major technical problems, including malfunctioning biometric machines meant to verify voters’ identities and delayed delivery of ballot papers in several regions.
Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, has faced repeated accusations of crushing opposition and maintaining total control over the state and security apparatus. His government imposed a nationwide internet blackout on Tuesday, heightening fears of electoral manipulation.
Wine, 43, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has risen as Museveni’s main challenger. The former musician, known as the “ghetto president” for his roots in Kampala’s slums, has accused the authorities of “massive ballot stuffing” and targeted attacks on his party officials, though these claims could not be independently verified.
Late Thursday, Wine’s National Unity Platform reported that military and police forces had surrounded his residence, effectively placing him and his wife under house arrest. The party also alleged that security officers had entered his compound and erected tents inside.
AFP reports that it’s journalists visiting the residence on Friday observed a calm environment, though a military vehicle and police presence remained outside. Security across Uganda was tight on election day.
The United Nations rights office had warned last week that the elections were being held amid “widespread repression and intimidation” against opposition figures, fuelling concerns over the credibility of the vote.
Analysts say the election outcome appears largely predetermined, pointing to Museveni’s long-standing control over Uganda’s political and security institutions and his history of suppressing rivals.