URGENT UPDATE: Uganda’s army chief, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has just accused U.S. Embassy officials of assisting opposition leader Bobi Wine as he goes into hiding following a disputed election. This shocking escalation comes just days after the January 15 presidential election, which has left many Ugandans on edge amid rising political tensions.
In a series of posts on X, Kainerugaba, who is also the son of President Yoweri Museveni, claimed that “unimaginative bureaucrats at the Embassy” have long “undermined” security relations between Uganda and the United States. He alleged that Wine “kidnapped himself” and is “missing” with the help of the U.S. Embassy, igniting widespread alarm among Ugandans concerned about the safety of the opposition figure.
Bobi Wine, whose real name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, received 24.7% of the vote in the recent election, a result he has denounced as fraudulent. President Museveni, aged 81, was declared the winner with 71.6%, securing a seventh term that pushes him closer to five decades in power. Wine has gone into hiding, fearing for his safety after campaigning while wearing a flak jacket and helmet.
In his latest remarks, Kainerugaba declared Wine “wanted dead or alive,” further escalating fears of potential violence. He warned that any foreign powers attempting to smuggle Wine out of Uganda would face severe consequences. This rhetoric has sparked worry among Ugandans, particularly the youth, many of whom are frustrated by unemployment and government corruption.
Wine has been vocal about his plight, posting videos from various locations in Uganda, mocking the military for failing to locate him. “The whole army is looking for one person. It’s now coming to 10 days, but they have failed to find me,” he said in a video, highlighting the ineffectiveness of the government’s efforts. His supporters have also faced backlash, with hundreds detained in the aftermath of the election.
Kainerugaba’s aggressive stance has drawn widespread condemnation, with critics fearing that any harm to Wine could lead to significant unrest in Uganda. The military has not specified any charges against Wine, with both police and the information minister asserting he has committed no crime.
Wine’s deputy, Muwanga Kivumbi, is facing terrorism charges related to a violent incident during the election. The political landscape in Uganda remains volatile, with many citizens calling for change after decades under Museveni’s leadership.
As the situation develops, the international community is closely monitoring the tensions between the Ugandan government and opposition forces. The implications of Kainerugaba’s statements are profound, as they could signal a dangerous turn in Uganda’s political climate.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
