The US has condemned the violence that gripped Uganda’s capital, Kampala, and other major towns following Wednesday’s arrest of presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine.
The former reggae musician was arrested during an election rally in the eastern district of Luuka after being accused of violating coronavirus guidelines set by the electoral commission.
His supporters have called for his release.
Police said three people died and about 30 were injured in the protests.
The US mission there has urged “all parties to renounce violence” and to undertake measures to reduce tensions.
But videos and photos have been circulating on social media, showing people covered in blood, some seemingly unresponsive, apparently shot dead.
He had been detained in the eastern district of Luuka, after the police accused him of staging an election meeting that broke the coronavirus guidelines set by the Electoral Commission.
His lawyers have said that the presidential contestant was being held at a police station in Jinja City.
Another opposition candidate, Patrick Amuriat Oboi, has also been arrested.
His rallies and events have been blocked by police on several occasions.
Uganda will hold presidential elections in January and, so far, campaigns have been marked by police violently enforcing pandemic restrictions.
