What happened to Bobi Wine?
Summary
Violent protests broke out in Uganda this week after politician and activist Bobi Wine was arrested.
- Bobi Wine is a popular singer, activist, and presidential candidate in Uganda. He was first arrested in October by his political opposition in what claims was an effort to suppress his campaign.
- He was released from prison and resumed campaigning for the presidency of Uganda, organizing human rights rallies and local events in major cities across the country.
- On Tuesday, shortly after officially registering his candidacy, Wine was detained by police and tortured for several hours. The police deny this allegation, but another opposition candidate told a nearly identical story of an assault by police.
- On Wednesday, Wine was formally arrested on charges of violating Coronavirus laws.
- Protesters immediately took to the streets, saying that his arrest was an attempt to suppress opposition.
- The protests escalated when armed forces arrived to suppress the demonstrations and violence erupted. As of today, 37 people have died in the clashes.
- Condemns the violence, including statement from the national security minister who said that violent protesters would “reap what they sow.”
- Implies that Uganda is not democratic, highlighting graphic images of arrests and demonstrations.
- Points out the huge number of civilian casualties and detainees resulting from the protests.
- Similar to the left, highlights the anti-democratic nature of the Ugandan governance. Wall Street Journal writes that state security forces were responsible for injuring and killing their own citizens and constituents.
- Highlights China’s strategic investments in Africa, including Uganda. National Review writes that China is making investments in sub-Saharan Africa to gain an advantage globally.
- Generally regards the violence as a tragedy. Daily Mail points out that that Uganda has been plagued by ongoing violence and infrastructural issues for years.
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© Evelyn Torsher, 2020
