At least seven opposition supporters were killed overnight in disputed circumstances as President Yoweri Museveni takes a commanding lead in Uganda’s presidential election. The violence occurred in Butambala, about 55km south-west of Kampala, where opposition MPs allege that security forces attacked supporters gathered at a home to follow early results. Police, however, claim the opposition instigated the violence.
Electoral returns from 70% of polling stations show Museveni with 75% of the vote, while opposition leader Bobi Wine trails at 21%. Wine’s home in Kampala is reportedly surrounded by security forces, effectively placing him and his wife under house arrest, according to his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP).
The US embassy issued an alert over reports that security forces were “using teargas and firing into the air to disperse gatherings.” The unrest comes amid an internet blackout, making news of the violence only widely available on Friday.
Opposition MP Muwanga Kivumbi told AFP that soldiers and police fired tear gas and live bullets at hundreds of supporters following early results, with ten killed inside his home. Human rights activist Agather Atuhaire corroborated this account. Police spokesperson Lydia Tumushabe disputed the claim, saying seven people were killed after “a group of NUP goons” attacked a police station and attempted to overrun a tallying centre.
Security forces have reportedly blocked journalists from accessing Wine’s home in the Magere area, with NUP stating officers had “unlawfully jumped over the perimeter fence” and were erecting tents inside his compound. Police maintain that the heavy deployment is for Wine’s own security.
The election, held under a network shutdown, was marked by delays at polling stations, malfunctioning biometric verification machines, and alleged repression of opposition activities. Wine, a 43-year-old pop star-turned-politician, claims “massive” electoral fraud, while Museveni, 81, is seeking a seventh term, emphasizing stability and continuity.
Uganda’s Communications Commission justified the internet blackout as a measure to prevent misinformation and violence, a decision condemned by the UN Human Rights Office. Analysts suggest a Museveni victory would extend his four-decade rule and potentially pave the way for his son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as successor, though the president denies this.
The final presidential results are expected to be announced Saturday at 16:00 local time (13:00 GMT).
