Uganda election: Chances for change?

"Military vehicles and soldiers seem to be on every street corner of Kampala. Though around 21.6 million voters have registered for the 2026 election, many Ugandans doubt the election will proceed in an orderly manner. Uganda has not experienced a peaceful transfer of power since independence in 1962. On the streets of Kampala, those willing to speak to DW expressed a desire to vote, but were under no illusions of what the election might bring."

""Historically, no election here has ever been completely fair," says Opolot Jerome, adding: "Machines can break down, the network can fail. Still, I hope many of those who didn't vote last time will cast their ballots this time." Maria Taremwa looks to election day with concern: "People are being beaten in the streets, especially opposition supporters." A government instruction to leave polling stations after voting also worries her: "Many want to protect their vote that's understandable, but it could easily lead to chaos.""

Heavy military presence and uniformed soldiers are visible across Kampala as Uganda approaches the January 15 presidential election. About 21.6 million voters have registered for the 2026 vote, yet many citizens doubt the election will proceed in an orderly manner and note the country has never achieved a peaceful transfer of power since 1962. Voters express willingness to participate but fear malfunctioning voting machines, network failures, violence against opposition supporters, government orders to leave polling stations after voting, and potential internet blackouts including Facebook restrictions. Incumbent Yoweri Museveni, 81, who has ruled since 1986, seeks a seventh term after removing age and term limits.

Read at www.dw.com