Ugandan opposition figure Bobi Wine was shot in the leg during a confrontation with police just outside the capital, Kampala, as reported by his opposition group. The incident occurred in Bulindo, Wakiso District, a town on the outskirts of Kampala. Photos circulating online showed Wine surrounded by supporters who claimed he had been shot in the leg before being assisted into a waiting vehicle.
Wine, whose real name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, is a prominent figure in Ugandan politics and leads the National Unity Platform, which holds the most opposition seats in the national assembly. This marks the first time Wine has been wounded in such a manner during street confrontations with law enforcement.
Wine, a former entertainer who transitioned into politics and won a seat in the national assembly in 2017, ran for president in 2021 but was defeated by incumbent President Yoweri Museveni. Wine alleged that the election was rigged against him, a claim that has been disputed by the government.
President Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, recently had the constitution amended to remove the age limit for presidents, allowing him to continue his presidency. At 79 years old, Museveni has faced calls to announce his retirement plans but has not indicated when he will step down.
Uganda, a country that gained independence from British colonial rule in 1962, has not experienced a peaceful transfer of power since then, highlighting the ongoing political tensions and challenges within the nation.