As Ugandans began casting their votes on Thursday, opposition leader Bobi Wine accused state authorities of interfering with the electoral process, claiming widespread irregularities and arrests targeting his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP).
In a statement shared on X, Wine said the government’s shutdown of internet services during the elections “prevents citizens and observers from seeing what is happening across the country.” He added that these actions have obstructed transparency and accountability in the voting process.
Wine also claimed there was “massive ballot stuffing reported everywhere,” alleging that the manipulation of results is occurring across multiple polling stations. He further said that several NUP officials have been detained, including key leaders.
“Our leaders, including the Deputy President for Western Region, have been arrested,” Wine stated, noting that some polling agents and supervisors were “abducted” or forcibly removed from polling stations.
The opposition leader’s allegations come amid heightened tensions and widespread concern over the fairness of the elections. Observers have faced challenges in monitoring the process due to the restricted internet access, while reports of intimidation and arrests raise questions about the conduct of the vote.
Wine’s claims underline a broader pattern of political pressure against opposition parties in Uganda, as citizens attempt to exercise their right to vote under challenging conditions.
More details are expected as the situation develops across the country.
