KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) — Ugandan pop star and opposition figure Bobi Wine has formally launched his presidential bid for the 2021 election.

The singer, whose real name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, announced his challenge to longtime President Yoweri Museveni while being cheered by scores of supporters. Wine leads a popular movement known as "People Power" and has emerged as a political threat to one of Africa's longest-serving leaders.

The singer first revealed his plans to run for president during an interview with The Associated Press last week in which he also said he was concerned for his safety. He has accused Ugandan security forces of torturing him in the past.

Authorities deny that the 37-year-old lawmaker, who faces multiple criminal charges including treason that he rejects, is being targeted.