Ugandan youth seek stability and opportunities ahead of upcoming election

Uganda Prepares for Presidential Election Amid Internet Shutdown and Tensions

Kampala, Uganda - The country is partially shut down ahead of Thursday’s highly contested presidential election. The national communications authority has suspended public internet access, the sale and registration of new SIM cards, and outbound roaming services. This move has triggered anger and frustration among young people who rely heavily on the internet for work, communication, and opportunity.

Marvin Masole, a 27-year-old university graduate, expressed his concerns about the shutdown. “Many of us use WhatsApp. Without internet, we are stuck,” he said. Masole is one of many young Ugandans who feel disconnected from the country’s leadership. The majority of the population is under the age of 35, but decades of power have not reflected this youthfulness in the upper echelons of government.

Yoweri Museveni, now 81 and seeking a seventh term after nearly four decades in power, has been the only president for Masole’s generation. Over 21.6 million voters have registered for the election, but many young Ugandans feel their voices do not translate into power.

Scovia Tusabimana, who strongly supports Museveni and his policies, believes his leadership has benefited the country. She cited universal primary education and infrastructure development as examples of his achievements. However, she acknowledged concerns about the internet shutdown and campaign violence against opposition supporters.

The election has been marred by uncertainty and tension, with Uganda not experiencing a peaceful handover since independence in 1962. Rights groups have reported over 50 deaths during the last polls in 2021, and opposition politicians and activists face harassment and intimidation. The government’s actions have led to concerns about the legitimacy of the election.

As the country prepares for the vote, many people are worried about what comes after the ballot. The outcome is predicted to favor Museveni, with his competitors likely to claim that the victory was rigged.

Source: Al Jazeera