Ugandans went to the polls on Thursday in a tense and closely watched election, as logistical challenges and a nationwide internet shutdown disrupted voting across the country.
With over 21 million registered voters, the electoral process faced delays in multiple regions, leaving many citizens frustrated and raising questions about the smoothness and fairness of the election.
In the capital, Kampala, several polling stations opened late, with long queues forming as voters waited for equipment and biometric verification systems.
Observers reported that some biometric voter verification machines were malfunctioning, preventing the timely confirmation of voter identities.
Officials and some citizens have linked these problems to the ongoing internet blackout, which the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) imposed ahead of the election to curb misinformation, alleged fraud, and potential incitement to violence.
In addition, reports indicated that polling materials failed to reach some stations on time, affecting both pro-government and opposition areas.
The presidential race remains a showdown between incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, 81, seeking a seventh term in office, and opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, a 43-year-old former pop star.
Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, has benefited from constitutional amendments removing presidential age and term limits, allowing him to continue his extended tenure.
Bobi Wine, who gained 35% of the vote in 2021, has campaigned on promises of anti-corruption reforms and sweeping political changes, challenging the long-standing dominance of Museveni’s government.
The campaign period has been marred by reports of intimidation and harassment, particularly targeting opposition supporters. Security forces have disrupted Bobi Wine’s rallies, detained NUP party members, and used tear gas and other crowd control methods, drawing criticism from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and the United Nations.
Amnesty has described these actions as a “brutal campaign of repression,” highlighting concerns over freedom of expression and political participation ahead of the vote.
Government authorities, however, have accused opposition supporters of causing disruptions and dismissed these claims as politically motivated.
The internet blackout, which began prior to election day, has compounded challenges for voters and the opposition alike.
The UCC cited security reasons, claiming the suspension was necessary to prevent misinformation and incitement, but the UN human rights office called it “deeply worrying.”
The NUP has accused the regulator of using the blackout to restrict opposition outreach and prevent the sharing of evidence of electoral fraud.
Security measures across Uganda have been intensified, especially in Kampala, where police and military officers patrol streets and armored vehicles are stationed at key locations.
Many residents have opted to vote in rural areas, seeking safer environments away from the heavy security presence.
One Kampala voter told the BBC that he re-registered in his home village to avoid intimidation but still participate in the election.
In addition to the presidential contest, voters are electing a new parliament, with 353 seats at stake. Economic issues remain central to the electorate, particularly for Uganda’s majority under-30 population.
High unemployment, limited opportunities, poor infrastructure, and disparities in education and healthcare continue to shape voter priorities and concerns.
The Electoral Commission has acknowledged receiving threats warning against the announcement of results in a particular way. EC Chairperson Simon Byabakama stressed the independence of the electoral process, stating: “I am not in the business of donating votes. Only the voters will decide who wins.”
Polling is scheduled to close at 16:00 local time (13:00 GMT), with all voters in line at that time allowed to cast their ballots.
Results for the presidential election are expected to be announced by Saturday, as the country awaits the conclusion of a vote overshadowed by delays, an internet blackout, and heightened political tensions.
