Uganda’s military has dismissed claims that opposition leader Bobi Wine was abducted by army personnel following the country’s recent elections, describing the allegations as false and misleading.
Army spokesman Chris Magezi told AFP on Saturday that reports suggesting Wine was forcibly taken away in a military helicopter were “absurd,” insisting there was no basis to the claims.
“The rumours of his so-called arrest are baseless and unfounded,” Magezi said, rejecting assertions circulating on social media and from opposition sources.
The denial came after Wine’s party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), alleged in a post on X late Friday that the opposition figure had been seized from his home by soldiers and flown away in an army helicopter, just a day after Ugandans voted in presidential and parliamentary elections.
The claims sparked concern among Wine’s supporters and human rights groups, who have repeatedly accused Ugandan security forces of targeting opposition figures, particularly during election periods.
Wine, a former pop star turned politician whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has been President Yoweri Museveni’s most prominent challenger in recent years. He has previously faced arrests, house detention and restrictions on his movements, especially during past election cycles.
The disputed election has already been marked by controversy, including reports of heavy security deployment, an internet blackout, and accusations of intimidation and electoral malpractice. The government, however, has defended its actions, saying security measures were necessary to maintain law and order.
As of Saturday, Wine’s whereabouts remained a subject of public speculation, while authorities maintained that he had not been arrested or abducted. The opposition has continued to demand transparency and assurances over his safety amid the tense post-election atmosphere.
