Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has taken a strong lead in results from Thursday's presidential election, the electoral commission reports. Figures announced on Friday show Museveni leading with 75% of votes counted from 60% of polling stations, compared to opposition leader Bobi Wine's 21%. Wine's home in Kampala remains effectively surrounded by security forces, limiting his freedom and movement, according to his National Unity Platform (NUP).
The tension escalated as clashes in Butambala, about 55km from Kampala, resulted in at least seven opposition supporters' deaths, with conflicting accounts regarding the cause of violence. MP Muwanga Kivumbi and activist Agather Atuhaire blamed security forces for the fatalities, while police claimed they acted in self-defense after being attacked by opposition supporters. An internet blackout imposed earlier in the week has hampered communication, triggering an outcry regarding freedom of information.
Despite the chaos, electoral chief Simon Byabakama asserts that the counting process remains unaffected due to a 'private system' used for result transmission. The elections have been marred by allegations of fraud, intimidation, and the repression of opposition activities, echoing a pattern observed in previous electoral cycles under Museveni's leadership. Observers are watching closely as Uganda might again prepare for disruptions following this election, particularly with a significant young population expected to rally behind Wine's platform focusing on reform and accountability. The final results are expected to be announced within 48 hours, as tensions continue to mount across the nation.
The tension escalated as clashes in Butambala, about 55km from Kampala, resulted in at least seven opposition supporters' deaths, with conflicting accounts regarding the cause of violence. MP Muwanga Kivumbi and activist Agather Atuhaire blamed security forces for the fatalities, while police claimed they acted in self-defense after being attacked by opposition supporters. An internet blackout imposed earlier in the week has hampered communication, triggering an outcry regarding freedom of information.
Despite the chaos, electoral chief Simon Byabakama asserts that the counting process remains unaffected due to a 'private system' used for result transmission. The elections have been marred by allegations of fraud, intimidation, and the repression of opposition activities, echoing a pattern observed in previous electoral cycles under Museveni's leadership. Observers are watching closely as Uganda might again prepare for disruptions following this election, particularly with a significant young population expected to rally behind Wine's platform focusing on reform and accountability. The final results are expected to be announced within 48 hours, as tensions continue to mount across the nation.
