Ugandans began voting in the country’s general elections on Thursday, despite a nationwide internet blackout, logistical delays at polling stations and heightened security across major cities.
The Electoral Commission said polling started at 7:00 a.m. local time and will close at 4:00 p.m., with official results expected within 48 hours in line with the constitution. Uganda has about 21.6 million registered voters out of a population of roughly 45 million.
In several regions, polling stations opened later than scheduled due to delays in the delivery of voting materials. In the capital Kampala and other urban areas, long queues formed early in the morning, with some voters expressing frustration over the delays.
Election official Umaru Mutyaba said that in parts of Kampala and surrounding districts, voters had been waiting since early morning for polling stations to open. “People were eager to vote, but many were upset by the late start,” he said.
Authorities have suspended the activities of several civil society organisations during the campaign period. Media monitoring group “That Group” said it was forced to close its office after receiving a letter from the Interior Ministry alleging activities contrary to national security and the law.
Electoral Commission Chairperson Simon Byabakama urged citizens to remain calm and peaceful, calling on voters to respect one another’s constitutional rights regardless of political affiliation.
President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled the country since 1986, is seeking a seventh term. He has urged citizens to turn out to vote and warned that any attempts to disrupt the election would be dealt with firmly.
Security has been tightened nationwide, with soldiers and armoured vehicles deployed in Kampala and other key areas since Jan. 10. Authorities say the measures are aimed at preventing violence.
The Uganda Communications Commission ordered all internet service providers to suspend access ahead of the vote, citing concerns over misinformation, election interference and public safety.
International observers, including the United Nations and the European Union, said they are closely monitoring the electoral process. Amnesty International has accused security forces of conducting a “brutal crackdown” on political opponents and activists.
Museveni faces seven challengers, including main opposition figure Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine. Constitutional changes in 2005 and 2017 removed presidential term limits and age limits, allowing Museveni to remain in power and seek re-election.
Source: AA
