Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine says he has left the country following the disputed presidential election that extended President Yoweri Museveni’s decades-long rule.
Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, said he temporarily departed Uganda after spending nearly two months in hiding following the January vote, which he alleges was marred by fraud and intimidation.
In a five-minute video message posted on X on Saturday, Wine said he had travelled abroad for “critical engagements outside Uganda,” but did not disclose his location or the nature of the meetings.
“At the right time I will come back and continue with the cause,” he said.
The pop star-turned-politician had reportedly been in hiding since fleeing his home in the capital Kampala shortly after the election. He claims security forces attempted to track him down through roadblocks and raids.
Wine has long accused the government of suppressing his campaign, saying authorities blocked opposition rallies and arrested many of his supporters during the election period.
Uganda’s government and military did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Wine’s statement.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba — the son of President Museveni — has said in social media posts that the military has been searching for Wine, though it remains unclear what charges, if any, he could face.
In his message, Wine accused Museveni of “usurping the will of the people,” adding that he would use his time abroad to engage with international partners before eventually returning to Uganda.
Museveni, 81, has ruled Uganda since 1986 and has repeatedly won elections that opposition groups and human rights organizations say were marked by intimidation and violence — allegations the government denies.