Museveni declared winner of Uganda poll as Bobi Wine rejects results, calls for protests

Uganda’s electoral commission has declared President Yoweri Museveni the winner of Thursday’s presidential election, a result that extends his decades-long rule to nearly 40 years.

According to official figures released by the commission, Museveni secured 72 per cent of the votes cast, defeating his main challenger, opposition figure Bobi Wine, who polled 25 per cent.

Wine, a 43-year-old former pop star turned politician, immediately dismissed the outcome, describing the results as “fake” and accusing authorities of manipulating the process. He called on Ugandans to engage in peaceful, non-violent protests to challenge what he said was a stolen election.

Museveni, 81, has ruled Uganda since 1986 when he seized power as a rebel leader. The latest victory marks his seventh election win and further consolidates his grip on the country’s political landscape.

The election was marred by reports of violence and heavy security presence across parts of the country. Wine alleged that at least 21 people were killed during election-related unrest, while official sources have so far confirmed seven deaths.

Adding to the controversy, the poll was conducted amid a nationwide internet shutdown that began on Tuesday. The government said the restriction was necessary to curb misinformation, electoral fraud and the incitement of violence.

The internet blackout has drawn sharp criticism from the international community, with the United Nations human rights office describing the move as “deeply worrying.” Wine has demanded the immediate restoration of internet services, arguing that transparency and accountability cannot be ensured under such conditions.

As tensions continue to simmer, Uganda faces an uncertain post-election period, with the opposition disputing the outcome and calling for calm but firm resistance.