Voters queued to cast their ballots in Uganda's presidential election on Thursday, following a run-up tainted by widespread violence that some fear could escalate as security forces try to stop supporters of leading opposition challenger Bobi Wine from monitoring polling stations.
Ugandans vote under heavy security, internet blackout
Musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, casts his ballot during the presidential and parliamentary at a polling station in Magere, Uganda
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In the election, Wine, a popular young singer-turned-opposition lawmaker, and nine other challengers are challenging incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, an authoritarian who has wielded power since 1986 and is seeking a sixth term.
Wine, whose real name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has seen many associates jailed or go into hiding as security forces crack down on opposition supporters they fear could mount a street uprising leading to regime change.
He insists he is running a nonviolent campaign.
The vote count will begin when polls close at 4 p.m. and results are expected within 48 hours.
More than 17 million people have registered to vote, and a candidate must win more than 50% to avoid a runoff.
Internet access was cut Wednesday night. “No matter what they do, the world is watching,” Wine tweeted.