Ugandan Leader Extends 40-Year Rule After Winning Contested Poll
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has officially secured another five years in power, extending his rule to an impressive 40 years. The election, held on Thursday, saw Museveni garner 72% of the vote, while his closest opponent, Bobi Wine, received 25%. Wine has labeled the electoral results as fake and has alleged ballot stuffing. Though he has not provided specific evidence to support his claims, the African Union observers reported no signs of irregularities.
Election Context and Claims of Violence
– Museveni, aged 81, rose to power in 1986 as a rebel leader and has since succeeded in seven elections.
– The election was marred by violence, with Wine stating that at least 21 people lost their lives in the lead-up to the vote. Official reports confirm seven fatalities.
– Following the announcement of the results, Simon Byabakama, head of the electoral commission, urged supporters of both parties to promote national unity and accept the election outcome.
– Outside the tallying center, celebrations were scarce, with many roads in Kampala deserted and businesses shuttered. Nonetheless, reports of localized violence emerged from various neighborhoods.
Internet Blackout and International Concerns
Access to the internet has been interrupted since Tuesday, creating barriers to the verification of information. Authorities justified the blackout as a measure to combat misinformation and prevent violence, a decision that has drawn criticism from the UN human rights office, which branded it deeply worrying. Bobi Wine has called for immediate restoration of internet access.
– Former Nigerian President and leader of the African Union observer mission, Goodluck Jonathan, admonished the government against implementing internet restrictions during election periods and condemned reports of intimidation and arrest, which he noted have eroded public trust.
The Implications of a Seventh Term
The legacy of Museveni’s administration prompts questions about the future of Uganda. Once a critic of leaders who cling to power, Museveni now seeks yet another term.
– Bobi Wine, a 43-year-old former pop star positioning himself as a voice for the youth, has pledged to address corruption and implement significant reforms.
– The electorate, composed predominantly of citizens under 30, shows varying levels of allegiance, as Museveni emphasizes his role as the stabilizing force due to Uganda’s turbulent history.
Ongoing Tensions Surrounding the Election
Reports from Wine’s assistant indicated an attempt by security personnel to detain him. Currently, Wine’s location remains unconfirmed, although he has previously indicated he was under house arrest. Following an alleged attack, he took to social media to claim he had narrowly evaded capture.
– Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke acknowledged that Wine’s movements were restricted due to security concerns, citing the need to control access to areas deemed security hotspots.
Among the six additional candidates, none exceeded 2% of the vote, with a turnout recorded at 52.5%. The pre-election period faced significant disruptions with accusations leveled at security forces for their treatment of opposition supporters, allegations that police dismissed as unfounded.
Conclusion
President Museveni’s victory not only extends his lengthy rule but also raises critical questions about the future of democracy and political stability in Uganda. As the country moves forward, the tension between the ruling government and the opposition remains palpable, marking a crucial time in Uganda’s political landscape.