Uganda Elections: Bobi Wine Detained as Museveni Claims Lead Amidst Post-Election Violence
KAMPALA – Uganda has descended into a state of high tension and political uncertainty following the general elections held on January 15, 2026. The leading opposition figure, Bobi Wine (Robert Kyagulanyi), was reportedly taken from his residence by security forces on Friday evening and moved to an undisclosed location, according to officials from his National Unity Platform (NUP).
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The detention comes as early results released by the Ugandan Electoral Commission suggest a decisive lead for the incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, 81, who has held power since 1986.
Allegations of Rigging and Internet Blackouts
The election was conducted under a near-total internet blackout, which the government justified as a measure to “prevent the spread of misinformation.” However, the opposition has condemned the move as a tactic to mask “massive electoral fraud.”
Bobi Wine’s campaign team alleged that ballot boxes were stuffed and polling agents were intimidated at gunpoint. Before his disappearance, Wine posted a defiant message on social media during a brief restoration of connectivity, calling the process a “complete sham.”
Violent Crackdown in the Capital
The situation turned deadly on Friday when security forces raided the NUP headquarters. Reports from the ground indicate that at least 10 campaign staff members were killed during the operation.
The military has since increased its presence in Kampala and surrounding districts, with armored vehicles patrolling the streets. Human rights organizations have expressed “grave concern” over the safety of Bobi Wine and other opposition leaders.
Provisional Results
According to the Electoral Commission, with approximately 70% of the votes counted, the standings are as follows:
| Candidate | Party | Provisional Vote (%) |
| Yoweri Museveni | National Resistance Movement (NRM) | 73.72% |
| Bobi Wine | National Unity Platform (NUP) | 22.66% |
| Others | Various | 3.62% |
International Reaction
The UK Foreign Office and the European Union have issued statements calling for “transparency and restraint.” A spokesperson for the UK government stated that the reports of violence and the detention of opposition figures “undermine the democratic process” and urged the Ugandan government to ensure the safety of all citizens.
As the final results are expected to be announced within the next 24 hours, the international community remains on high alert for further civil unrest.