Uganda's election descended into chaos with a blackout and broken machines. Votes are being counted amid a nationwide internet shutdown and opposition claims of rampant rigging. Presidential candidate Bobi Wine alleged massive ballot stuffing and the abduction of his party agents. Voting faced major delays due to malfunctioning biometric verification equipment and missing materials.
Long lines formed as polling stations opened late and closed past scheduled times. The electoral commission apologized for technical glitches. Incumbent Yoweri Museveni faces a primary challenge from pop star turned politician Bobi Wine. Many voters expressed anger and frustration over being unable to cast ballots despite waiting for hours.
Election chief Simon Byabakama authorized the use of paper voter registers where machines failed. Problems affected both government and opposition areas. Museveni noted his own biometric verification issue while voting. He questioned whether the malfunctions were deliberate manipulations. The campaign period saw widespread harassment of opposition supporters, according to human rights groups.
Security forces repeatedly disrupted Wine’s rallies with force. The communications regulator imposed an internet blackout, citing misinformation risks. The opposition launched an offline app to share results forms via Bluetooth. Economic issues like unemployment dominate voter concerns. A final presidential result is expected shortly.
Long lines formed as polling stations opened late and closed past scheduled times. The electoral commission apologized for technical glitches. Incumbent Yoweri Museveni faces a primary challenge from pop star turned politician Bobi Wine. Many voters expressed anger and frustration over being unable to cast ballots despite waiting for hours.
Election chief Simon Byabakama authorized the use of paper voter registers where machines failed. Problems affected both government and opposition areas. Museveni noted his own biometric verification issue while voting. He questioned whether the malfunctions were deliberate manipulations. The campaign period saw widespread harassment of opposition supporters, according to human rights groups.
Security forces repeatedly disrupted Wine’s rallies with force. The communications regulator imposed an internet blackout, citing misinformation risks. The opposition launched an offline app to share results forms via Bluetooth. Economic issues like unemployment dominate voter concerns. A final presidential result is expected shortly.
