Ugandan opposition figure Bobi Wine went into hiding after security forces raided his home the day after the January vote, as Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba publicly accused him and threatened him as a “baboon” and a “terrorist.”

Kainerugaba has led the manhunt for Wine and has signaled that Wine is wanted for unspecified crimes, though Ugandan police say they are not seeking him.

Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the president’s son and army chief, posted threats on X about Wine, triggering international concern over Wine’s safety.

President Museveni, now 81, is set to be sworn in for a seventh term in May, extending nearly five decades in power.

Supporters portray Museveni’s long rule as bringing stability, while critics warn of growing authoritarianism and suppression of dissent.

The episode underscores a tense political climate in Uganda, with debates over democracy and the safety of opposition figures amid government crackdown on dissent.

Wine remains a leading opposition figure with a large urban youth following, frustrated by corruption and limited economic opportunities after decades of rule.

Wine is seen as the most prominent of seven presidential candidates and continues to attract support from urban youths seeking change.

Observers describe a shift toward increased authoritarianism despite claims of stability and regional peace from Museveni’s supporters.

The election period and subsequent crackdown have drawn opposition accusations of authoritarianism and heightened political tension as Museveni nears a seventh term.

Wine stated in a video on X that he left Uganda for critical engagements abroad and did not disclose his destination, thanking supporters who protected him during the manhunt.

Wine says he fled Uganda to escape a military search after the disputed January 15 election, which Museveni’s government says he won with about 71.6%, a result Wine rejects as fraudulent.