(3 minutes read)
· The European Union and the US urged a probe by an independent agency into Uganda’s election violence, while the main opposition leader Bobi Wine remained under house arrest
· US Ambassador Natalie Brown a few days ago tried to meet with Wine but she was turned away by the posse of security personnel posted at Bobi-Wine’s house
· The Ugandan government while reacting to the incident of turning away the US Ambassador from Wine’s residence said that her visit was meant to create some mischief
The European Union and the US urged a probe by an independent agency into Uganda’s election violence, while the main opposition leader Bobi Wine remained under house arrest. The release of the popular leader from house arrest is being pressed by the international f community. Although the internet connection has been partially restored, normal life has still to return to the country, which has witnessed violence during the campaign trail and later.
Uganda’s longtime leader President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner for a record sixth term in the election. However, several people including the international community have complained of numerous harassment by the state security forces before and after the election. In the meantime, Uganda accused the US ambassador of breaching diplomatic norms and engaging in “mischief” over her attempt to visit opposition leader Bobi Wine, who is confined to his home.
US Ambassador Natalie Brown a few days ago tried to meet with Wine but she was turned away by the posse of security personnel posted at Bobi-Wine’s house. The visit was to check on Wine’s health and safety, given that he was unable to leave his home, with security forces surrounding his residence. Wine came second in the presidential election. The Ugandan government while reacting to the incident of turning away the US Ambassador from Wine’s residence said that her visit was meant to create some mischief. She should have written to the Ministry of External Affairs and sought permission before venturing to meet Bobi-Wine, the Ugandan government sources pointed out.
At the same time, the US embassy said Uganda’s election campaign had been marred by the harassment of opposition candidates, campaign staff, and supporters; suppression of the media and civil society organization activities; and a nationwide internet shutdown before, during, and after voting day.
Lawyers for Bobi Wine have approached the Ugandan High Court to order security forces to produce the opposition leader and either show a legitimate reason for his confinement or release him. A hearing already had taken place and the details of which are awaited.
