Uganda’s tense election night took a dramatic turn after opposition leader Bobi Wine was reportedly seized by soldiers in a helicopter raid, as President Yoweri Museveni moved closer to another overwhelming win.
Tension is high in Uganda following shocking claims that opposition leader Bobi Wine was allegedly taken away by security forces on Friday evening, just as early results pointed to a landslide victory for President Yoweri Museveni in the 2026 general election.
According to a statement shared online by Wine’s party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), a military helicopter reportedly landed at his home in Kampala before armed soldiers forcibly removed him to an unknown location.
The post, shared on X late Friday, sparked outrage among supporters and renewed fears of a crackdown on opposition figures.
As of Saturday morning, the claims had not been independently verified. International news agency Reuters reported that government and military officials had not responded to requests for comment, while some senior NUP members admitted they were yet to confirm Wine’s whereabouts.
The alleged incident unfolded as provisional election results showed Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for decades, opening a massive lead over his challengers.
If confirmed, the results would extend his grip on power and further frustrate opposition supporters who had hoped for a tighter race.
In Kampala and other major towns, anxiety spread quickly on social media, with many Ugandans questioning the credibility of the election process and the safety of opposition leaders.
Wine, a former pop star turned politician, has previously accused state agencies of harassment, intimidation, and house arrest during past elections.
Human rights activists and observers have long raised concerns about Uganda’s electoral environment, especially during high-stakes polls.
Previous elections have been marred by internet shutdowns, arrests of opposition supporters, and heavy security deployments.
As the vote tally continues, all eyes remain on whether authorities will clarify Bobi Wine’s situation and whether the opposition will challenge the results.
For many Ugandans, the night’s events have once again highlighted the deep political divisions and unresolved questions surrounding democracy and power in the country.
More updates are expected as official results are announced and pressure mounts on the government to explain what really happened to the opposition leader.
