Uganda Votes Amidst Internet Blackout and Logistical Delays. Kampala, Uganda — Voting commenced in Uganda’s presidential election on Thursday, despite a prolonged internet shutdown and logistical delays that have raised concerns about the fairness of the process. President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in office since 1986, is seeking a seventh term against seven other candidates, including Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, who advocates for political change.
The East African nation, with a population of approximately 45 million, has 21. 6 million registered voters. Polls were scheduled to close at 4 pm local time, with results required to be announced within 48 hours, according to the electoral commission.
Voters in some areas reported delays as polling stations opened late and voting materials were delivered after the scheduled 7 am opening time. Juma Katongole, a voter in Kampala, expressed frustration over the situation, noting that the biometric voting machines were not functioning properly. Officials commented on the matter.
However, the move has been widely criticized as an anti — democratic tactic.
The internet shutdown, which began on Tuesday, has affected critical sectors such as banking and has been condemned by international rights groups. Amnesty International has accused security forces of engaging in a “brutal campaign of repression, “citing incidents of violence during opposition rallies.
Museveni, during his final rally before the election, encouraged voters to participate in large numbers. “
We are ready to put an end to this indiscipline, “he.
The national electoral commission chairperson, Simon Byabakama, appealed for tolerance among Ugandans as they cast their votes.
Further details are expected as the situation unfolds.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 3*
