News|Elections‘Protect the vote’: Bobi Wine, opposition brace for tense Uganda electionDoes the main opposition candidate looking to unseat long-serving President Yoweri Museveni have any hope of winning?
Kampala, Uganda – As the presidential campaign in Uganda concludes, opposition candidate Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has been forced to adopt increased security measures due to escalating tensions.
Kampala, Uganda – As the presidential campaign in Uganda concludes, opposition candidate Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has been forced to adopt increased security measures due to escalating tensions.
Initially, the campaign unfolded with relative optimism. However, the situation deteriorated, resulting in Bobi Wine appearing publicly in a bulletproof vest and helmet. This shift reflects the heightened security concerns and the contentious political environment.
Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, in power for nearly four decades, is seeking re-election against Bobi Wine and five other candidates. The election, involving 21.6 million registered voters, will take place on Thursday, Jan 7, 2026.
Bobi Wine's campaign has faced significant obstacles, including frequent encounters with tear gas, roadblocks, and arrests of supporters. While violence levels have not reached the deadly intensity of the 2021 elections, the campaign has been marked by increased militarization and repression.
Museveni's son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, serving as Uganda's army chief, has issued threats against Bobi Wine, contributing to the tense atmosphere. Security forces have disrupted campaign events, with incidents of violence and arrests reported.
Kampala, Uganda – As the presidential campaign in Uganda concludes, opposition candidate Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has been forced to adopt increased security measures due to escalating tensions.
Bobi Wine's party has experienced challenges with candidates withdrawing or being disqualified from parliamentary races. The Electoral Commission has faced criticism for its disqualification decisions, which some view as attempts to suppress opposition.
President Museveni has engaged in financial distributions to various groups, raising concerns about electoral corruption and voter influence.
As election day approaches, Bobi Wine has cautioned about potential state actions against him and his team. He has advised supporters to take precautions to ensure their safety.
The Electoral Commission has emphasized discipline regarding voter presence at polling stations, advising voters to disperse after casting their votes.
While Ugandans express a desire for peace, the political landscape remains tense. Museveni has issued warnings against any confrontations with security forces. The opposition, aware of structural challenges, seeks to consolidate its presence rather than directly unseat the incumbent.
Analysts predict that post-election, Bobi Wine may face restrictions, and the opposition will likely contest the election results. The potential for significant protests appears limited under the current circumstances.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
