Ugandan opposition leader and former pop star Bobi Wine has accused security forces of attacking him and his campaign team while canvassing in the northern city of Gulu. In a series of posts on social network X late Saturday, Wine shared videos and photos showing chaotic scenes of violence, claiming that both he and his supporters were beaten.
According to Wine, some of the alleged attackers were not in uniform. He also reported that the campaign’s sound system was vandalized. Earlier in the week, Wine said military forces had attacked and vandalized his team’s office in Gulu. Several individuals injured during the clashes were reportedly taken to hospital.
Rising Tensions Ahead of Elections
The incidents mark a sharp escalation of violence as Uganda prepares for presidential elections scheduled for 15 January 2026. Wine will once again challenge President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled the country since 1986 and is seeking a sixth term at the age of 81.
Museveni’s long tenure has been marked by accusations of authoritarianism and suppression of dissent. Security forces in Uganda have a history of detaining protesters and opposition supporters, raising concerns about the fairness of the upcoming vote.
Key Takeaways
- Bobi Wine says he and his supporters were beaten by security forces in Gulu.
- Videos and photos posted online show chaotic scenes of violence during his campaign.
- Wine also accused the military of vandalizing his campaign office earlier in the week.
- The clashes come ahead of Uganda’s presidential election on 15 January 2026.
- President Museveni, in power since 1986, is seeking a sixth term at age 81.