Uganda in Crisis as Army Chief Issues Ultimatum to Opposition Leader
KAMPALA — Political tensions in Uganda have surged dramatically following a public threat from the country’s powerful army chief, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, against leading opposition figure Bobi Wine. The General, who is also the son of long-serving President Yoweri Museveni, used the social media platform X to order Wine to surrender to authorities within 48 hours.
The alarming directive comes amid claims by Muhoozi that security forces have killed several supporters of Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) party. The General provided no specific evidence or details regarding the alleged fatalities, but the statement has intensified fears of a violent state crackdown on dissent.
This escalation follows a contentious presidential election last week, where the electoral commission declared President Yoweri Museveni the winner with 71.6% of the vote, securing a historic eighth term in office. Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, was officially placed second with 24% of the vote. He has forcefully rejected the results, labelling them a “fraudulent outcome” of a “rigged election.”
The election process and its result have drawn widespread condemnation from international and domestic observers. Several rights groups and international bodies have cited a climate of intimidation, harassment of opposition candidates and supporters, internet shutdowns, and a lack of transparency.
Since the polls closed, authorities have intensified a widespread crackdown. Reports indicate that more than 100 opposition supporters have been charged with offences linked to election-related unrest. Many NUP members and officials have been arrested, and the party alleges widespread abduction and torture of its followers by security forces.
General Muhoozi’s direct intervention adds a volatile new dimension to the crisis. As the commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the son of the President, his move is seen by analysts as a significant militarization of the political dispute. Observers warn that the ultimatum could signal a move toward more drastic measures against the opposition leadership.
Bobi Wine, a former musician turned politician, has called for peaceful protests and international intervention. He remains under what his party describes as “illegal” house arrest, with heavy security presence around his residence.
The situation has placed Uganda, a key regional ally for Western nations, under intense scrutiny. Diplomatic sources indicate growing concern among international partners, who are calling for restraint, dialogue, and respect for human rights.
As the 48-hour deadline looms, the nation holds its breath, fearing further violence and a decisive turn in the government’s approach to its political opposition.
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