Tragic Clashes Erupt Amid Ugandan Elections as Museveni Claims Lead

Fri Jan 16 2026 18:55:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Violence breaks out in Uganda's presidential elections, with opposition supporters clashing with police and resulting in fatalities, as President Museveni takes a commanding lead.

In the wake of Uganda's presidential elections, President Yoweri Museveni is reporting a significant electoral lead with 75% of votes counted so far. However, the elections have been marred by violence, with at least seven opposition supporters killed during clashes with police. With reports of heavy military presence around opposition leader Bobi Wine's residence and an internet blackout complicating the flow of information, the political landscape remains tense as the nation awaits final results.

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has taken a strong lead in results from Thursday's presidential election, according to the electoral commission.

Figures announced on Friday afternoon show Museveni leading with 75% of the votes based on returns from 60% of polling stations, followed by opposition leader Bobi Wine at 21%. As the election results are unveiled, Wine's home in Kampala has been surrounded by security forces, effectively placing him and his wife under house arrest, as reported by his National Unity Platform (NUP).

Tragically, overnight violence in Butambala, approximately 55km southwest of Kampala, has led to the deaths of at least seven opposition supporters in clashes with the police. Initial reports indicate that soldiers and police responded to large gatherings at Wine's home with tear gas, and witnesses claim that live bullets were used.

An internet blackout, imposed earlier in the week, has severely impacted communication, causing delays in news updates regarding the violence. Opposition MP Muwanga Kivumbi provided testimony suggesting that at least ten individuals were killed inside his house.

Local police disputes these accounts, claiming that their response was defensive against what they characterized as an attack from "NUP goons" armed with weapons. Meanwhile, journalists are reporting restrictions on their access to Wine's residence.

The electoral authority has confirmed that voting was delayed due to logistical challenges, including malfunctioning biometric machines. Despite the prevailing tensions, the electoral chief stated that the final results would be announced shortly, possibly before 5 PM local time tomorrow.

The elections, characterized by allegations of fraudulent activities and extensive repression, reflect the ongoing power struggle within Uganda, as Museveni seeks a seventh term after more than three decades in power. As tensions remain high, all eyes are on the final election results.