"People in Uganda headed to the polls in a tense environment on Thursday, as President Yoweri Museveni seeks to extend his rule into a fifth decade. Crowds gathered in long lines in some areas as polling station openings were delayed and voting materials were seen being delivered after the scheduled opening time. The election is taking place with the internet restricted across the country."
"The polls will see Museveni clash with seven other candidates including longtime opponent and popular singer Bobi Wine. Wine is a 43-year-old pop star dubbed the "Ghetto President" for his humble origins. He has promised to end what he calls Museveni's "dictatorship" while appealing to the youth which is angry about scarce economic opportunities. Over 70% of Uganda's population is under the age of 30."
"A local newspaper ran a full-page spread on election morning advising readers to "election-proof" their homes by reinforcing doors and windows, and designating a safe room in case of unrest. Museveni's four decades of rule have been marked with accusations of rampant security force abuses against his opponents. The UN Human Rights Office said last week that the elections were taking place amid "widespread repression and intimidation"."
People queued at polling stations amid delays and late delivery of voting materials as President Yoweri Museveni pursues another term. The internet blackout began days before voting, justified by authorities as a measure to stop "misinformation" and "incitement to violence." Opposition candidate Bobi Wine, a 43-year-old pop star nicknamed the "Ghetto President," campaigned on ending what he calls Museveni's "dictatorship" and appealed to a largely young population facing scarce economic opportunities. Museveni, 81, campaigned on "protecting the gains," promising peace and economic elevation. Widespread fears of unrest prompted safety advice, and the UN cited "widespread repression and intimidation."
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