Voting has commenced in Uganda, in a very tense presidential election between President Yoweri Museveni opposition frontrunner Bobi Wine, a popular musician who became opposition leader.
The build-up to the election was hit by the worst political violence in years, with over 50 Ugandans killed by security forces while cracking down on opposition rallies, and repeated intimidation and apprehension of opposition figures. While talking about the crackdowns, Police said their actions were necessary in a bid to ensure compliance with COVID-19 restrictions.
Access to internet has been banned and there are fears of unrest as authorities are trying to prevent followers of leading opposition challenger, Bobi Wine, from monitoring polling stations.
Polling stations in Kampala began voting behind schedule as election materials did not reach the centres on time.
Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is contesting for a sixth term against a strong challenge from Bobi Wine, whose is popular with the youth and his popularity has got the 76-year-old former rebel leader rattled. Also, nine other challengers are trying to remove Museveni from office.
Over 18 million people have registered to vote in the election. To avoid a run off election, a candidate must get over 50 percent of the total votes.
The vote count will commence when polls close at 13:00 GMT and results are expected to be announced within 48 hours.
Meanwhile, Bobi Wine has voted at Freedom Square polling station located in Wakiso district, Kampala. He cast his vote shortly after 0:800 GMT after he was cheered by jubilant supporters upon his arrival at the voting centre.
