Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Uganda Votes Under Internet Blackout as Museveni Seeks Fifth Decade in Power

A sweeping security clampdown with an internet blackout fuels doubts about a credible count.

Overview

  • Polling took place Thursday under an indefinite nationwide shutdown of internet and curtailed mobile access that began Tuesday.
  • Security forces mounted heavy deployments across Kampala, with police using newly hired special constables to enforce order.
  • Rights groups cited arrests of hundreds of opposition supporters, at least one death at campaign events, suspensions of NGOs, and harassment of journalists.
  • Analysts say Museveni’s control of state institutions makes an upset unlikely, with official results expected within 48 hours.
  • Opposition leader Bobi Wine, who draws strong backing from Uganda’s young electorate, has warned of protests if he judges the vote stolen.