Uganda: Bobi Wine injured after clash with police

Ugandan opposition figure Bobi Wine was injured in a confrontation with police just outside the country's capital Kampala, his opposition group said.

"He was shot in the leg and seriously injured," said Wine's party, the National Unity Platform.

What do we know about the incident?

According to local media outlet NTV Uganda, Wine was injured after local police shot tear gas to disperse his supporters in the town of Bulindo, about 17 kilometers (11 miles) north of the capital. 

Videos circulating online show Wine, whose real name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, limping into a hospital while being supported by two men on both sides. Images showed a bleeding wound below the left knee.

His party wrote on X that Ugandan security operatives "made an attempt on the life" of the opposition politician.

It was unclear if Wine was struck by a bullet or a tear gas projectile. 

Injury caused by Wine himself, police say

Police said that Wine "embarked on a procession up to Bulindo town," despite officers advising against it.

The opposition politician “insisted on proceeding and closing the road, leading to police intervention to prevent the procession."

As for Wine’s injury, police officers claimed it was caused by Wine himself "stumbling while getting into his vehicle."

Police said they will investigate the allegations that Wine had been shot.

Who is Bobi Wine?

Wine was a famous entertainer in the East African country before being elected for parliament in 2017.

In 2021, Wine ran for president. After losing to President Yoweri Museveni, he claimed the elections were rigged. Wine enjoys a high popularity among young Ugandans in urban areas.

ftm/wmr (AP, dpa, AFP, Reuters)