A major rights activist just got locked up before the vote. Police in Uganda confirmed the detention of Sarah Bireete, a prominent lawyer and head of the Centre for Constitutional Governance, ahead of the general election. Authorities stated she is in custody and will face court without detailing charges. Bireete is known for frequent criticism of the government's actions, including alleged illegal detentions and torture targeting opposition supporters.
The election features longtime President Yoweri Museveni against pop star turned politician Bobi Wine, whose National Unity Platform claims hundreds of members have been arrested this year to intimidate supporters. A recent United Nations human rights official also condemned an intensifying crackdown, noting hundreds of detentions. Another opposition leader, Kizza Besigye, has been jailed on treason charges for over a year. Wine himself reported being beaten by security forces during campaigning, with no investigative findings released.
The election features longtime President Yoweri Museveni against pop star turned politician Bobi Wine, whose National Unity Platform claims hundreds of members have been arrested this year to intimidate supporters. A recent United Nations human rights official also condemned an intensifying crackdown, noting hundreds of detentions. Another opposition leader, Kizza Besigye, has been jailed on treason charges for over a year. Wine himself reported being beaten by security forces during campaigning, with no investigative findings released.
