In Uganda, the prominent opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, was apparently detained by security forces immediately after the presidential election. According to reports from his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), military units surrounded his residence near the capital city Kampala and entered the grounds without permission. While some sources speak of a de facto house arrest, other reports suggest he was taken away using a military helicopter.
These events overshadow the vote count, where the head of state Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is clearly leading with over 70 percent of the votes, according to the national election commission. Bobi Wine, who is particularly popular among the young population, rejected these results as manipulated and spoke of massive 'election fraud'. The elections took place under difficult conditions, including a nationwide restriction of internet access, which makes verifying the results harder.
The ballot was accompanied by reports of violent clashes. There were reportedly several fatalities in confrontations between security forces and opposition supporters. International observers expressed concern about the restrictions on civil liberties and the 'repression' against political opponents throughout the entire election process.
