Polling stations across Uganda opened Thursday for a pivotal presidential election, with reports of logistical delays and enthusiastic voter turnout shaping the early hours of voting. Long queues formed in urban centers like Kampala as election officials worked to distribute materials after several stations missed the scheduled 7:00 AM opening time.
This election marks Uganda's first national vote since constitutional amendments extended presidential term limits in 2024. Ten candidates are competing, including incumbent President Yoweri Museveni who seeks his seventh term. Observers note particular interest in youth voter participation, with 60% of registered voters under age 35.
While Uganda falls outside KhabarAsia's primary coverage area, the election holds significance for regional stability in East Africa. Business analysts are monitoring potential impacts on cross-border trade agreements and infrastructure projects connecting Kenya, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The electoral commission has deployed over 100,000 security personnel nationwide following pre-election tensions. International observers from the African Union are present at key polling stations, with preliminary results expected within 48 hours.
