Uganda opposition leader Bobi Wine said he escaped a raid on his home by security forces, as long-time President Yoweri Museveni appeared poised to secure another decisive victory in the country’s presidential election.
In a post on X on Saturday, Wine — whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi — said police and army personnel attempted to detain him, but he managed to avoid capture.
“I want to confirm that I managed to escape from them,” Wine wrote. “I am not at home at the moment, although my wife and other family members remain under house arrest. I know these criminals are looking for me everywhere, and I am doing my best to stay safe.”
Conflicting Accounts Over Arrest Claims
A day earlier, Wine said security forces had placed him under house arrest following the vote. His political party later claimed he had been forcibly removed from his residence by an army helicopter. The Ugandan military denied that account, rejecting allegations of an arrest or forced removal.
Wine has emerged as the country’s most prominent opposition figure after challenging Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for nearly four decades. The election campaign unfolded amid heavy security deployment and repeated reports of intimidation targeting opposition supporters.
Vote Marred by Violence and Intimidation
Preliminary results indicated Museveni, 81, was on track for a landslide victory that would extend his rule to about 40 years in power. The election, however, has been overshadowed by allegations of repression and violence.
The United Nations said the campaign period was marked by “widespread repression and intimidation,” while local reports indicated at least 10 people were killed in incidents linked to the vote.
Opposition groups and civil society organisations have accused authorities of using force and legal pressure to silence critics, claims the government has previously denied.
Uncertainty After the Vote
As results continue to emerge, Wine’s whereabouts remain unclear, and his supporters have expressed concern over the safety of opposition leaders and their families. The unfolding situation has heightened tensions in the country, with observers warning that the post-election period could bring further unrest.
Museveni’s government has yet to comment directly on Wine’s latest claims, but officials have repeatedly insisted the election was conducted lawfully and that security measures were necessary to maintain order.