By Matik Kueth
Voting in Uganda kicked off at 7 am local time on Friday, with over 20 million registered voters set to cast their ballots in an election in which the incumbent, Yoweri Museveni, is seeking another term.
The January 15 elections come in the wake of a countrywide internet shutdown, restricting online communication and access to social media during the voting period.
The commission confirmed that all registered voters at the affected stations will be given the opportunity to vote, ensuring that the electoral process remains inclusive and that no eligible voter is disenfranchised.
According to Daily Monitor, voting is set to end at exactly 4.00 pm, and only voters lining up at the polling station will be allowed to vote beyond the set time.
Election officials have directed polling to continue, with measures in place to manage delays and maintain order as voting proceeds across the country.
9:00 am: Biometric Glitch
Some biometric machines reportedly failed to work at several polling stations in Uganda, causing delays as voters queued to cast their ballots.
Election officials are working to resolve the technical issues to ensure a smooth voting process across the country.
8:43 am: Commonwealth Statement
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, has expressed concern over restrictions on freedoms of expression, assembly, and association in Uganda ahead of the general elections.
I am troubled by recent reports from the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights that point to restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, incidents of arbitrary arrests, abductions, and the use of force against opposition gatherings,” read part of their statement.