Challenges and Controversies Mark Uganda's Presidential Elections

Thu Jan 15 2026 12:21:30 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Uganda's presidential and parliamentary elections are beleaguered by delays, an internet blackout, and accusations of voter suppression as millions head to the polls. President Museveni faces a young challenger in a tense atmosphere.

As Uganda opens its polls for the presidential and parliamentary elections, widespread delays and an internet blackout are raising concerns. Voters have reported malfunctioning biometric equipment and logistical issues at polling stations, while security forces have been accused of suppressing opposition activities. President Yoweri Museveni, who has served nearly four decades, is seeking another term, facing competition from pop star Bobi Wine, who promises reform amid accusations of widespread voter intimidation.

Polls have opened in Uganda's presidential and parliamentary election, though voting has been disrupted by widespread logistical delays across the country amid an internet shutdown.

At 08:00 local time (05:00 GMT), the BBC observed that things had yet to get going at five polling stations in the capital, Kampala, an hour after voting was due to start.

The delays have been blamed on failures of biometric identification kits, which some have linked to the network outage.

In the presidential race, Yoweri Museveni, 81, who has ruled the country for nearly four decades, is seeking a seventh successive election victory as he faces a challenge from a charismatic pop star.

Where voting has been taking place, there are reports that the biometric machines used to verify voters' identities are still malfunctioning in some areas.

Delays have also been caused by polling materials and equipment failing to arrive at some stations on time.

The problems appear to be affecting areas that are seen as pro-government as well as areas that are seen as pro-opposition.

The poll is essentially a two-horse race between Museveni and singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine, but given the president has won the six previous elections, analysts say he is likely to further extend his time in power.

Wine, 43, has promised to tackle corruption and impose sweeping reforms, while Museveni argues he is the sole guarantor of stability and progress in the country.

The campaign period was marred by the disruption of opposition activities - security forces have been accused of assaulting and detaining Wine's supporters.

Internet access had been suspended ahead of voting day, with Uganda's Communications Commission saying a blackout was necessary to prevent misinformation, fraud, and the incitement of violence - a move condemned by the UN human rights office as deeply worrying.

The NUP has rejected this explanation, accusing the regulator of trying to stop the opposition from mobilizing and sharing evidence of election fraud.

Voting is crucial for young voters as the economy remains a primary concern, with many under 30 struggling to find employment despite rising incomes.

The election result is expected to be announced on Saturday.