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Bobi Wine Calls for Civil Disobedience Against Museveni
Ugandan pop star and opposition leader Bobi Wine has ignited the political landscape with a call for civil disobedience and a “moral uprising” against President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled the country for 38 years. In a recent interview with France 24, Wine expressed fear for his life, alleging that the regime is determined to silence any opposition. This comes amid renewed legal action by his National Unity Platform (NUP) and growing international attention on his 2021 presidential bid.
Wine’s call for a “moral uprising” is an escalation of his long-standing criticism of Museveni’s government, which he accuses of widespread corruption, human rights abuses, and stifling political dissent. His concerns about personal safety echo those of numerous opposition figures and activists who have faced intimidation, arrest, and even violence during Museveni’s tenure.
Meanwhile, the political spotlight has intensified on Wine with the recent Oscar nomination of a documentary chronicling his tumultuous 2021 presidential campaign. The film, “Bobi Wine: Ghetto President,” sheds light on the brutal crackdown on Wine and his supporters, which marred the election and raised international concerns about its fairness.
Adding to the political heat, the NUP on Tuesday filed a lawsuit with the Kampala High Court against Ugandan security agencies. The party seeks the release of 18 of its supporters who have been missing since the 2021 election campaign.
Niger Junta Ejects EU Officers
In a move that further strains relations with the West, Niger’s military junta has expelled 15 members of the European Union’s Eucap mission, prompting concerns about the country’s growing isolation.
Interior Minister Brig. Gen. Mohamed confirmed the expulsions, which occurred on January 26th, just two days after the officers “returned to Niamey on various flights” without notifying the government. This latest incident follows the junta’s decision in December to terminate the Eucap mission, which had provided security training and support for over a decade.
Niger’s relationship with the West has been tumultuous since the July coup that saw the junta seize power from democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum. The EU responded by imposing sanctions on junta leaders, further deepening the rift.
The junta, led by Colonel Mamadou Doumbouya, has signaled its intention to downgrade military ties with European nations and “diversify” partnerships, with Russia and Iran emerging as potential allies. This shift raises concerns about the future of US troops stationed at a drone base in Agadez, a crucial hub in the fight against regional jihadist groups.
Analysts warn that Niger’s anti-Western rhetoric and the expulsion of EU personnel could have significant consequences. The country faces ongoing security threats from militants and relies heavily on Western aid and military support.
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