Bobi Wine taken to unknown location by Ugandan military helicopter

Ugandan Opposition Presidential Candidate Detained After Election

A National Unity Platform official has confirmed that opposition presidential candidate Bobi Wine was “forcibly” removed from his home in Kampala, Uganda, on Friday. The incident occurred a day after the country’s tense election, which saw internet connectivity shut down.

According to reports, men believed to be military personnel and security agents jumped over the fence of Wine’s residence. However, details about Wine’s current whereabouts are unclear, as the official could not confirm whether he was at home or had been taken away.

The National Unity Platform made the announcement on social media, stating that Wine was taken to an “unknown destination” in an army helicopter. The Ugandan authorities have yet to comment on the matter.

Wine had challenged President Yoweri Museveni in the election campaign, which was marred by allegations of widespread repression and intimidation. The United Nations had previously stated that the election process was compromised by such issues.

Reports from Al Jazeera indicate that Wine had made claims of “massive ballot stuffing” on social media before the vote, as well as calling on Ugandans to reject the government. The president’s government has faced accusations of a years-long crackdown on opposition politicians and their supporters.

The election results were announced on Friday, with President Museveni securing 73.7 percent support and Wine receiving 22.7 percent. However, violence broke out in the town of Butambala overnight, resulting in at least seven deaths. Local police spokesperson Lydia Tumushabe attributed the violence to opposition supporters who had gathered at a police station and vote-tallying centre, which were attacked by security forces.

Source: Al Jazeera