Polls have opened in Uganda's presidential and parliamentary elections as citizens contend with severe disruptions and logistical delays across the country. An internet shutdown has compounded issues, with many polling stations in the capital, Kampala, reportedly unprepared for voters even an hour after the scheduled start time.
Election day, which began at 08:00 local time (05:00 GMT), has seen various delays attributed to failures of biometric identification kits and the late arrival of necessary polling materials. In a tense atmosphere, over 21 million registered voters are navigating a complex electoral landscape where incumbent president Yoweri Museveni, 81, seeks a seventh consecutive term amid a vigorous challenge from singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine.
The presidential race has drawn considerable attention due to Museveni's long-standing rule and Wine's promises of reform and anti-corruption measures. However, the context surrounding the election is marked by incidences of violence against opposition supporters and claims of governmental repression during the campaign.
Critics have condemned the internet blackout, implemented to prevent misinformation and violence, as a means to stifle opposition voices. As voting continues, concerns about security remain high, especially in light of previous elections marked by unrest and loss of life. Polls are set to close at 16:00 local time (13:00 GMT), with results expected shortly thereafter.
Election day, which began at 08:00 local time (05:00 GMT), has seen various delays attributed to failures of biometric identification kits and the late arrival of necessary polling materials. In a tense atmosphere, over 21 million registered voters are navigating a complex electoral landscape where incumbent president Yoweri Museveni, 81, seeks a seventh consecutive term amid a vigorous challenge from singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine.
The presidential race has drawn considerable attention due to Museveni's long-standing rule and Wine's promises of reform and anti-corruption measures. However, the context surrounding the election is marked by incidences of violence against opposition supporters and claims of governmental repression during the campaign.
Critics have condemned the internet blackout, implemented to prevent misinformation and violence, as a means to stifle opposition voices. As voting continues, concerns about security remain high, especially in light of previous elections marked by unrest and loss of life. Polls are set to close at 16:00 local time (13:00 GMT), with results expected shortly thereafter.
