U.S. Embassy Issues Security Alert for Americans in Uganda Amid Post-Election Unrest

By : Mweru Mbugua 

The United States Embassy in Uganda has issued a security advisory urging American citizens to exercise heightened caution following reports of unrest after the country’s general elections

In a statement released on Friday, the embassy said security forces had used teargas and fired shots into the air to disperse gatherings in several areas, warning that the situation remains volatile as the nation awaits official election results

The embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid large public gatherings and demonstrations, noting that such events can escalate quickly without warning

Americans were also encouraged to closely monitor local media, limit unnecessary movement, and maintain a low profile

Additional guidance included staying aware of surroundings, keeping a charged mobile phone with emergency contacts saved, and ensuring proper identification is readily available

The embassy specifically urged U.S. nationals to carry a valid U.S. passport with a current Ugandan visa at all times

“U.S. citizens are encouraged to exercise enhanced caution, avoid large public gatherings, and limit unnecessary movements,” the advisory stated

Following Thursday’s polls, violence was reported in Butambala, where at least seven people were killed and 25 others arrested, according to local reports

Tensions were further heightened by claims from the opposition National Unity Platform that its leader, Bobi Wine, was forcibly taken from his home by the Ugandan army and driven to an unknown location

The claims were dismissed by army spokesperson Chris Magezi, who said they were intended to incite violence among supporters

 Also read : Bobi Wine Allegedly Forcibly Taken by Army as Museveni Secures Election Lead

“The rumours of his so-called arrest are baseless and unfounded. They are designed to incite his supporters into acts of violence,” Magezi told AFP

As of publication, Uganda’s Electoral Commission indicated that President Yoweri Museveni was leading the presidential race with 76.25 per cent of the vote, while Bobi Wine had garnered 19.85 per cent

The remaining votes were shared among six other candidates

The unfolding developments have heightened anxiety across the country as Ugandans await the final election results amid growing concerns over security and the political climate