The United States says those who truncated democratic processes, subverted will of the people and violated human rights during Thursday’s general elections in Uganda will be decisively dealt with.
Ekohotblog reports that Morgan Ortagus, Department of State spokeswoman, made this known on Saturday.
President Museveni has come under severe and widespread castigation for deploying the agents of state to oppress and intimidate opposition figures, abuse human rights and rig the electoral process to favour him.
Ms. 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.
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, Mr. Museveni, 76, secured 58.64 per cent of the total votes to beat his main challenger, Bobi Wine, who trailed with 35 percent.
But the exercise has been characterised by allegations of voter fraud and harassment of opposition politicians by security forces.
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