Will Uganda's election bring change or further hardship?

"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." Taremwa speaks to another fear possible internet blackouts: "Facebook has been restricted since the last election. And that limits our freedom of expression.""

"Yoweri Museveni a veteran in power President Yoweri Museveni, 81, has ruled since 1986 and is seeking his seventh mandate. This was made possible by constitutional amendments he initiated, which removed age and term limits. President Yoweri Museveni seeks seventh term in officeImage: Uganda PPU Museveni presents himself as a guarantor of stability. In a New Year's address, he defended the tough actions of the security forces, describing the use of tear gas against the "criminal o"

Tensions are high ahead of Uganda's presidential election on January 15, with military vehicles and soldiers on many Kampala streets. About 21.6 million voters have registered, but many doubt an orderly process. Uganda has not experienced a peaceful transfer of power since independence in 1962. Many residents express a desire to vote while fearing fraud, technical failures, and violence against opposition supporters. A government order requiring voters to leave polling stations after voting raises concerns about ballot protection and potential chaos. Internet restrictions and past Facebook limits raise fears of communication blackouts. President Yoweri Museveni, 81, has ruled since 1986 and is seeking a seventh term after removing age and term limits.

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