The United States has accused Uganda of persistently violating the rights of its citizens and media in the aftermath of February’s presidential election.
The allegation of rights violations are the latest signs of worsening relations between western powers and Uganda, an ally in the fight against Islamists in the region.
U.S. State Department spokesman John Kirby, said in a statement that Uganda’s repeated detention of opposition figures and harassment of their supporters, and the government’s interference in a challenge of the poll results are “unacceptable activities in a free and democratic society”.
“The United States and Uganda have a long standing and strong partnership that has contributed to the stability and prosperity of the region.
“We are concerned that the Ugandan government’s recent actions could endanger the economic and political progress that has enabled our relationship to grow,” the statement said.
Uganda’s electoral commission declared 71-year-old incumbent president, Yoweri Museveni, the winner of the Feb. 18 election with 60% of the vote.
Kizza Besigye, who came in second with 35% and who is currently under house arrest, has rejected the results.
