The
United States has said that it will take action against anti-democratic forces
and human rights abusers in Uganda following Thursday’s general elections in
the country.
This
was contained in a statement on Saturday by the United States Department of
State through its spokesperson, Ms. Morgan Ortagus,.
Ortagus
said the government was “deeply troubled” by credible reports of “security
force violence” and election irregularities before and during the polls.
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 January
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.
Newsmen
recall that Uganda’s Electoral Commission on Saturday, 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.
Ahead
of Election Day, the government shut down Internet connections in the country,
drawing condemnation from civil society and election observers.
Wine,
a former music star, has vowed to provide evidence of election fraud when
internet services are restored, according to the BBC.
“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.
“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
urged all political actors to shun violence and resolve all arising disputes
through constitutional and legal means.
The
spokesperson also called on the Ugandan government to respect freedom of
expression and the right to peaceful assembly.
“We
reiterate our intention to pursue action against those responsible for the
undermining of democracy and human rights in Uganda,” Ortagus added.
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