Uganda’s main opposition leader Bobi Wine, who has emerged as the most formidable opponent of country’s president, Yoweri Museveni, was shot in the leg by the police in a northern suburb 20km away from the capital Kampala on Tuesday. This was confirmed by his party said.
The opposition figure is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital. Reports indicate that the Wine is undergoing a surgery to remove the substance he was shot with.
The police reported that officers attempted to prevent Wine and his team from marching down a road, which led to an altercation resulting in Wine’s injuries. The police said on X that an investigation would be conducted to clarify the facts.
The prominent opposition figure who contested the 2021 presidential election against President Yoweri Museveni, has often faced violent confrontations with police. Wine was previously put under a house arrest by the country’s security details for arranging a protest.
However, this is the first time he has been injured in such a manner. He is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.
The police claimed Wine defied advice against holding a street procession, leading to an altercation. They stated that an investigation into the alleged shooting would be conducted.
Wine’s party condemned the incident, calling it an attempt on his life. Wine, a former entertainer turned politician, is highly popular among young Ugandans. Since entering politics, he has faced numerous challenges, including blocked rallies, harassment, and physical assaults by security forces.
Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, has resisted calls to retire, and Uganda has never seen a peaceful transfer of power since its independence in 1962.
