Uganda holds elections amidst security concerns and disruptions

Uganda Holds General Election Amid Controversy

Polls have opened in Uganda’s general election, which is expected to see President Yoweri Museveni extend his four-decade rule. The country has been on edge due to a police crackdown on the opposition, fears of violence, and an internet shutdown. Mobile network operators were instructed by the government regulatory body to block public internet access starting on Tuesday evening.

Voting began shortly after 7am in at least one Kampala suburb, according to AFP news agency journalists. Heavy police and army patrols were reported in the border town of Jinja. The United Nations Human Rights Office has emphasized the importance of open communication and information for free and genuine elections.

Over 21.6 million voters have registered for the election, with high unemployment being a key issue for first-time voters. The government has been accused of overseeing a crackdown on its critics, arresting political opposition leaders and their supporters. Pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine is challenging Museveni in the vote, despite his campaign rallies being disrupted by authorities.

The Uganda Communications Commission defended the internet shutdown as necessary to curb misinformation and electoral fraud. The UN Human Rights Office warned last week that Ugandans would be heading to the polls amid widespread repression and intimidation against the opposition, human rights defenders, journalists, and those with dissenting views.

Source: Al Jazeera