Following his decisive presidential election victory, securing a seventh term since 1986, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has intensified his rhetoric. He has controversially labelled political opponents as "terrorists," alleging they conspired to destabilise the nation. These assertions have emerged concurrently with significant concerns raised by international observers and human rights organisations regarding the election's integrity. Widespread repression of the opposition and a pervasive internet shutdown, which severely limited public discourse, have been cited as major issues.
Provisional results indicated President Museveni secured a substantial 72% of the vote, with his main rival, opposition leader Bobi Wine of the National Unity Platform (NUP), obtaining 25%. However, Wine's campaign has vehemently rejected these figures, denouncing the election as a "blatant theft." Tensions were already heightened during the voting period, exacerbated by an unprecedented internet blackout imposed by the government just before polling commenced. This measure significantly impeded citizens and observers from monitoring the process and disseminating crucial information.
Following the election, the whereabouts of Bobi Wine became a focal point of intense speculation. Wine himself reported narrowly escaping a police raid on his residence, stating he had gone into hiding. Official police statements, however, have denied any such raid took place. Independent journalists attempting to reach Wine's home were reportedly confronted by a heavy police presence, effectively preventing verification of the situation or direct comment from the opposition leader.
In his victory address on Sunday, President Museveni did not hesitate to make pointed accusations. He asserted that certain opposition factions had employed violent tactics to challenge the election results. Furthermore, he alluded to external involvement, stating, "Some of the opposition are wrong and also terrorists. They are working with some foreigners and some homosexual groups." He issued a stern warning to those he identified as "traitors," declaring, "All the traitors – this is free advice from me – stop everything, because we know what you are doing and you will not do it." Museveni also alleged that the NUP had harboured intentions of attacking polling stations.
The government's restrictive measures extended to the digital sphere, with numerous social media platforms remaining banned. Although some limited internet connectivity has been gradually restored in certain areas, this sustained censorship has prompted serious questions about transparency and the fundamental right to freedom of expression.
The election outcome and President Museveni's subsequent pronouncements suggest a continuation of his extended tenure in power. Simultaneously, this deepens the divide between the ruling establishment and the growing opposition movement. The international community, including African election observers and various human rights advocacy groups, is closely monitoring these developments. Significant concerns have been raised about the erosion of democratic principles and the protection of fundamental human rights in Uganda. The prevailing uncertainty surrounding the safety of key opposition figures and ongoing communication restrictions cast a considerable shadow over the nation's political trajectory.