Human Rights Watch Alleges Post-Election Repression in Uganda

Ugandan authorities have intensified their crackdown on the opposition following the January 15, 2026 presidential election, according to Human Rights Watch. The rights group says security forces have carried out mass arrests of National Unity Platform supporters and forcibly disappeared two senior party leaders.

Human Rights Watch reports that the home of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, has been repeatedly raided by security forces, with access restricted and property damaged. His wife, Barbara Kyagulanyi, has alleged assault by armed men during one of the raids. Mr Kyagulanyi, President Museveni’s main challenger, has since gone into hiding.

The group also says two senior opposition figures — Jolly Jackline Tukamushaba and Lina Zedriga Waru — were detained by soldiers in separate incidents and remain missing. The military has denied holding Ms Zedriga, while court proceedings are ongoing.

Human Rights Watch says the incidents amount to enforced disappearances, which are prohibited under international law, and has accused the Ugandan government of escalating repression against dissenting voices. It has urged authorities to end the crackdown and investigate alleged abuses.

The government has not publicly responded in detail to the allegations. The 2026 elections were marked by reports of arrests, violence at opposition rallies, media restrictions and an internet shutdown ahead of polling day.

Uganda’s authorities have previously pledged to hold security forces accountable for abuses, but Human Rights Watch says there is no public evidence of such action.