In a dramatic turn of events following Uganda's presidential election, President Yoweri Museveni has established a commanding lead with 75% of the votes counted from 60% of polling stations. His main rival, opposition leader Bobi Wine, trails with 21% amidst an atmosphere of escalating violence and tension.
Reports indicate that at least seven opposition supporters were killed during clashes in Butambala, a region near the capital. The opposition claims these fatalities occurred during a violent crackdown by police and military forces, who were responding to gatherings of supporters awaiting results.
Opposition members have described a scenario where security forces surrounded Wine's residence, rendered him and his wife virtually under house arrest, and enforced an internet blackout that has hampered communication and reporting from the ground.
Human rights activists and opposition leaders have condemned the actions of security forces, claiming that their interference in the election has led to severe repercussions, including the deaths of supporters during protests. However, police maintain that they were acting in self-defense against what they call 'goons' armed with weapons trying to incite violence.
As tension mounts, the election, marked by accusations of fraud, continues to capture global attention, with the possibility of further unrest lingering in the air. Uganda's Electoral Commission has vowed to announce the final result within 48 hours, amid international scrutiny and pressing calls for accountability.
