Ugandan Musician, Ziggy Wine, Dies From Injuries After Being Abducted and Tortured

Ugandan musician Allinda Michael, better known as Ziggy Wine—a close affiliate of opposition leader and musician Bobi Wine—has died after being abducted and tortured,BBC Africa reports.

The artist, who was signed to Bobi Wine's Firebase Crew music label and was a firm supporter of the People Power movement, was kidnapped on July 21 while he was on his way to a recording session in Kampala. He was found a week later with several injuries, including a missing eye and two fingers. He died at Mulago Hospital in Kampala on Sunday night.

Police say they have launched an investigation into his death. Given his association with People Power, both Bobi Wine and the late artist's family allege that the abduction may have been politically motivated, reports BBC Africa. Bobi Wine recently announced that he will run for office in 2021, challenging President Yoweri Museveni's 33-year rule.

READ: Bobi Wine is Officially Running for the Ugandan Presidency in 2021

"Our friend Ziggy Wine could not make it. He passed on last night—succumbing to injuries sustained after a horrendous encounter with kidnap & torture," wrote Bobi Wine in a message of condolence shares on Twitter. "Very painful! He joins other countless Ugandans. As we mourn him, we resolve to work even harder to end this. Rest well brother."

The artist, who recently announced that he will run for office in 2021, challenging President Yoweri Museveni's 33-year rule, also released a statement via Facebook on what he referred to as "the unexplained [kidnappings], torture and murder of several #PeoplePower supporters & other political activists."

Several Ugandan fans and supporters have shared heartfelt messages online in remembrance of the artist, with many also decrying what appears to be a new wave of state-initiated violence against Ugandan citizens who dare to speak out against Museveni.