Tensions Rise in Uganda as Museveni Leads Early Results and Opposition Leader Bobi Wine Placed Under House Arrest

Tensions surged across Uganda on Friday as early election results showed President Yoweri Museveni leading comfortably. Opposition leader Bobi Wine was placed under house arrest, raising fears of unrest.

The electoral commission reported Museveni with 76.25 percent of votes from nearly half of polling stations. Wine trailed with 19.85 percent. Six other candidates shared the remaining votes. Museveni, 81, seeks to extend his rule beyond 40 years. He told reporters he expects victory if “there is no cheating.”

Wine, 43, claims the vote was manipulated. He says authorities interfered with results and imposed a nationwide internet blackout. The government said the shutdown aimed to curb misinformation. Wine asked his supporters to protest, though no major demonstrations were recorded during voting hours.

Violence erupted overnight in Butambala town, 55 kilometres southwest of Kampala. Police and witnesses gave conflicting accounts of the clashes. Officials are investigating, but the scale of the unrest remains unclear.

Election day also faced major technical problems. Biometric voter verification machines failed at several polling stations. Some areas experienced hours-long delays in ballot delivery. These glitches caused confusion and frustration among voters.

Wine stayed under house arrest on Friday. Security officers surrounded his residence. They entered the compound and set up tents inside. Journalists observed calm outside, but police and a military vehicle maintained a heavy presence. Movement was limited for those near the property.

Analysts say Museveni’s control over state institutions and security forces makes his win highly likely. Wine has become his strongest challenger in years. He continues to mobilize supporters despite tight restrictions.

The situation highlights Uganda’s fragile political climate. Deep divisions remain between the government and opposition. Observers warn that tensions could escalate further as more results are announced.

The international community has called for calm. Observers stress the importance of transparent vote counting. Both sides are urged to respect the rule of law and allow citizens to exercise their democratic rights safely.