Museveni Election Win Sealed Amid Controversial Crackdown

Uganda’s latest election outcome has once again raised serious concerns about democracy, civic space, and human rights. The declaration of victory for President Yoweri Museveni, extending his rule to a seventh term, followed a campaign period marked by widespread repression, violence, and restrictions on fundamental freedoms. Events surrounding the January 15 elections highlight a troubling pattern where electoral processes are reinforced through force rather than public consent. Escalating Repression Ahead Of The Vote Months before ballots were cast, state authorities intensified crackdowns on opposition activity and civil society. Security forces repeatedly disrupted opposition rallies, using tear gas, arbitrary arrests, and physical assaults. Journalists covering these events were targeted, undermining press freedom and limiting independent scrutiny of the electoral process.

Incidents of lethal force further heightened tensions . On November 28, 2025, opposition supporter Mesach Okello was shot dead in Eastern Uganda, with police citing alleged disorder as justification. Such explanations have become routine in a context where excessive force is normalised during political gatherings.

Opposition candidate Robert Kyagulanyi reported repeated assaults by security personnel, including attacks on supporters during campaign events. Following the election announcement, security forces reportedly surrounded his residence near Kampala, cutting electricity and restricting movement. Senior members of the National Unity Platform were later abducted, with their whereabouts still unknown, reinforcing fears of enforced disappearances.

Alongside repression of political opponents, authorities moved aggressively against civil society organisations. At least ten NGOs were ordered to suspend operations indefinitely based on vague allegations, weakening independent monitoring and advocacy efforts during a critical political moment. Arrests of prominent human rights defenders sent a clear signal that dissent would not be tolerated. Internet Shutdowns And Information Control Two days before the election, the government imposed a nationwide internet blackout , severely restricting access to information. Although partial connectivity returned after the vote, social media and messaging platforms remained blocked, limiting communication, documentation of abuses, and public debate. Such measures directly violate the right to access information and distort electoral transparency. International Obligations and Accountability Uganda is bound by regional and international human rights frameworks that guarantee freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation. Continued violations place the country in breach of these commitments and demand a strong response from regional bodies and the wider international community. Independent investigations into election-related abuses remain essential to restore credibility and deter future violations. The Road Ahead Electoral victory was secured amid violence, intimidation, and systematic restrictions on opposition activity