Uganda’s political crisis deepened on Friday after military chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba announced that authorities had detained 2,000 opposition supporters, killed 30, and were hunting for more following the disputed January 15 presidential election.
Museveni Declared Winner Amid Internet Blackout
President Yoweri Museveni, 81, who has ruled Uganda for nearly four decades, was declared the winner of a seventh term, defeating opposition leader Bobi Wine of the National Unity Platform (NUP). The vote was held during an internet blackout, raising concerns about transparency.
Wine, whose legal name is Robert Kyagulanyi, rejected the results, alleging widespread irregularities including ballot stuffing. He has since gone into hiding, citing threats to his safety.
Army Chief Labels Opposition “Terrorists”
In a series of overnight posts on X, Museveni’s son and army chief Kainerugaba described NUP supporters as “hooligans” and “terrorists.”
“So far we have killed 30 NUP terrorists,” he wrote, without providing details of the circumstances.
“Most NUP terrorist leaders are in hiding. We shall get them all.”
The government has accused Wine’s supporters of violence during the election, while the opposition insists its members were targeted by security forces. Independent verification of these claims remains difficult.
International Concern
The crackdown has drawn global attention. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the arrests and violence, urging restraint and respect for Uganda’s international human rights obligations.
“He notes the importance of restraint by all actors and respect for the rule of law,” said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.
The European Union and rights groups have also raised alarms about intimidation, arbitrary detentions, and reports of torture in unofficial detention centres.
Escalating Repression
The situation intensified with the detention of Muwanga Kivumbi, a lawmaker and Wine’s deputy in the NUP, who was charged with terrorism in court on Friday. He was remanded until February 3. Two other senior NUP figures have been reported missing for days.
Wine has alleged that hundreds of his supporters have been illegally detained in recent months, accusing authorities of systematic intimidation.
Succession Speculation
Museveni is widely believed to be grooming Kainerugaba, who has openly expressed presidential ambitions, as his successor. Analysts say the latest crackdown underscores the consolidation of power within the Museveni family and raises questions about Uganda’s democratic trajectory.
Conclusion
Uganda’s post-election turmoil highlights the deep divisions between the ruling establishment and opposition forces. With mounting international concern and ongoing repression, the country faces a critical test of governance, human rights, and political stability in the months ahead.
