Uganda's Presidential Election: A Nation on Edge
As Uganda heads to the polls, a nation is holding its breath. The country's long-serving president, Yoweri Museveni, is seeking his seventh term in office, but opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, is determined to unseat him. With internet blackouts and polling delays causing chaos, the stage is set for a dramatic showdown.A Nation on Edge
Uganda has never experienced a peaceful transfer of power since gaining independence from Britain over 60 years ago. President Museveni's grip on power has been increasingly reliant on the military, led by his son Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Critics argue that unseating him through the ballot box remains a steep challenge.
Polling Delays and Internet Blackout
At some polling stations, tempers flared as voters waited for hours to cast their ballots. Opposition lawmaker Ssemujju Nganda reported that he had already spent three hours in line, with malfunctioning biometric voter identification machines exacerbating the delays. The government communications agency ordered an internet shutdown, citing concerns over misinformation and electoral fraud.
A Rematch Between Museveni and Wine
The contest marks a rematch between President Museveni and Bobi Wine, who emerged as his most prominent rival during the 2021 election. That race saw a turnout of 59%, with Wine winning 35% of the vote against Museveni's 58%. The margin of victory was the smallest recorded by the president since he first ran for office three decades ago.
Concerns Over Transparency and Military Intervention
Observers have raised concerns over transparency, the growing role of the military in politics, fears of dynastic succession, and opposition efforts to guard against ballot manipulation. Amnesty International accused Ugandan security forces of carrying out a 'brutal campaign of repression,' pointing to a November 28 opposition rally where the military sealed off exits and fired on supporters, killing one person.
A Call for Calm and Respect
Electoral commission chairperson Simon Byabakama appealed for calm and mutual respect as voting got underway. 'Let us keep the peace that we have,' he said. 'Let us be civil, let us be courteous, let's be tolerant.' Meanwhile, veteran opposition leader Kizza Besigye remains behind bars, having been detained since February 2025 on charges of treason.
As Uganda votes, the world watches with bated breath. Will President Museveni secure his seventh term in office, or will Bobi Wine's determination pay off? One thing is certain: this election will be a defining moment for Uganda's future. The nation holds its breath as it waits to see what tomorrow brings.
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