Ugandan opposition denounces 'military state' ahead of election

Members of the Uganda Police Force monitor the area as supporters of opposition leader and presidential candidate for the National Unity Platform (NUP) Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, gather to see his convoy on the way to the party’s final campaign rally ahead of the 2026 general elections, in Kampala on January 12, 2026. [AFP]

As dark clouds gathered overhead, young and old members of Uganda's long-embattled opposition gathered for prayers at the home of an imprisoned politician -- the mood both defiant and bleak.

The mayor of Kampala, Erias Lukwago, told the gathering on Sunday that this week's election was a "face off" between ordinary Ugandans and President Yoweri Museveni.