Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, announced his departure in a video posted on X, saying he had gone abroad for “critical engagements outside Uganda” and would return at the right time.
Wine, a pop star turned politician, had decided earlier this year not to challenge the election results in court, citing concerns over Uganda’s judicial process.
President Yoweri Museveni, 81, was declared the winner, securing a seventh term with about 72 percent of the vote, while Wine received around 25 percent.
In his video message late Saturday night, Wine noted that he had been in hiding due to heightened security around his home in Kampala, and he reaffirmed his commitment to political activism and advocacy through constitutional channels.
“At the right time I will come back and continue with the cause,” he said.
Uganda’s military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is also Museveni’s son, has indicated that authorities are aware of Wine’s movements, though no charges have been specified.
During the election period, the African Union Election Observation Mission noted there was no evidence of widespread irregularities, though it criticised the temporary internet shutdown imposed during and after polling.
The Uganda Human Rights Commission acknowledged some procedural challenges on voting day but maintained that the election’s overall credibility was intact.
President Museveni, in his victory address, called for national unity and peace. He outlined priorities for his new term, including wealth creation, poverty reduction, improved public services, and an ongoing fight against corruption.
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