Early results show Museveni in lead in Uganda election as violence reported

"The veteran Ugandan president, Yoweri Museveni, held a commanding lead in early presidential election results announced on Friday as conflicting accounts emerged of violence reported after the vote. Museveni, who is 81 and has ruled Uganda since seizing power in 1986, wants a decisive victory following a campaign marred by violence at opposition rallies. Results announced by the electoral commission from Thursday's election showed Museveni with 76.25% of the vote based on tallies from nearly half of polling stations."

"Wine alleged mass fraud during the election, which was held under an internet blackout that authorities said was needed to prevent misinformation', and called on supporters to protest. The UN human rights office said last week the election was being held in an environment of widespread repression and intimidation, and recent political violence in neighbouring Tanzania and Kenya amplified fears about unrest in Uganda."

Yoweri Museveni led early tallies with 76.25% based on nearly half of polling stations, while Bobi Wine trailed with 19.85% and six other candidates split the remaining votes. Museveni, 81, has ruled since 1986 and sought a decisive victory after a campaign marked by violence at opposition rallies. Museveni said he expected 80% if there was no cheating. Bobi Wine alleged mass fraud and called supporters to protest amid an internet blackout authorities said aimed to prevent misinformation. The UN said the election environment involved widespread repression and intimidation. Overnight violence in Butambala reportedly left at least ten opposition supporters dead after security forces fired teargas and live rounds.

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