Uganda Presidential Election: United States promises to take action against election riggers in Uganda

After the country's general elections on Thursday, the United States has said it would take action in Uganda against anti-democratic forces and violations of human rights.

The US position came in a statement made on Saturday by the State Department through its spokesperson, Ms. Morgan Ortagus. 

Ortagus said the government before and after the elections was "deeply troubled" by reliable allegations of "security force violence" and election irregularities.

She called for independent investigations into the allegations and urged the Ugandan government to hold accountable security agents responsible for violence and abuses.

“The Ugandan people turned out to vote in multi-party national elections on Jan. 14 despite an environment of intimidation and fear.

“We are deeply troubled by the many credible reports of security force violence during the pre-election period and election irregularities during the polls.

“We strongly urge independent, credible, impartial, and thorough investigations into these reports and that those responsible be held accountable,” she said.

Earlier on Saturday, Uganda’s Electoral Commission declared long-time President Yoweri Museveni, winner of the disputed presidential election for a sixth term in office.

According to the results, Museveni, 76, secured 58.64 per cent of the total votes to beat his main challenger, Bobi Wine, who trailed with 35 per cent.

But the exercise has been marred by allegations of voter fraud and harassment of opposition politicians by security forces.

Reports say dozens of people were killed during violence in the run-up to the election.

The government shut down Internet links in the country ahead of Election Day, drawing criticism from civil society and election observers. 

According to the BBC, Wine, a former music celebrity, has promised to offer proof of electoral irregularities when internet facilities are restored.

“We condemn the continuing attacks on political candidates and urge the government to respect their human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of expression.

“We are gravely concerned by harassment of and continued threats to civil society.

Also Read: Uganda’s longtime President, Yoweri Museveni, has won the election in the country

“Finally, we note the continued nationwide shutdown of the Internet and call for its immediate restoration along with that of social media services,” Ortagus said.

She encouraged all political parties, by constitutional and legal means, to avoid violence and settle all emerging conflicts. 

The spokesperson also called on the government of Uganda to uphold freedom of speech and the right to a peaceful assembly. 

Ortagus said, "We reiterate our intent to take action against those responsible for undermining democracy and human rights in Uganda."