Uganda: authorities shut down internet hours before polling stations open

Internet Shutdown in Uganda Amid Presidential Elections

Uganda is experiencing a nationwide internet shutdown as it prepares for the presidential elections on Thu, [insert date]. The shutdown is reportedly intended to prevent "misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and related risks," according to authorities and the electoral commission.

Among the presidential candidates is Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, who is challenging the incumbent president, Yoweri Museveni, for the second time. President Museveni, aged 81, is supported by a regime established over four decades, despite facing six other challengers. His leadership is credited by some voters with economic reforms, although it is also characterized by restrictions on freedom of speech and political opposition.

Bobi Wine, undeterred by the internet shutdown, has called on his supporters to protest and is appealing to the younger electorate to support his candidacy over the current president.

Based on reporting by Africanews.