Uganda's Tense Election Amid Internet Blackout

The polls have closed in Uganda's presidential election, a contest defined not by open debate but by silence. On Thursday, January 15, 2026, millions of Ugandans cast their ballots under the shadow of a total internet blackout and a heavy police presence across the capital, Kampala.

The atmosphere was tense, a stark reflection of an often violent campaign season. The election pits the long-standing incumbent, President Yoweri Museveni, against a field of challengers, most notably the popular singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine. For the 81-year-old president, this vote represents a bid to cement his rule into a fifth decade, a tenure that has spanned nearly 40 years.

The proceedings have drawn international attention, with observers noting the parallels to recent unrest in neighboring Tanzania and Kenya. The question on everyone's mind is not just who will lead Uganda, but what the cost of this election will be.

In a move that has drawn condemnation from human rights groups, Ugandan authorities imposed a near-total internet shutdown just hours before polls opened. The blackout, which began late Wednesday, effectively cut off the country from the global digital community, disrupting communication and the flow of information.

This digital blackout was not an isolated event. It was accompanied by a significant security deployment throughout the country. Police and military personnel were visible on the streets of Kampala and other major towns, creating an atmosphere of control and surveillance.

The shutdown had several key impacts:

• Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp were inaccessible
• Mobile money services, a critical part of Uganda's economy, were disrupted
• News websites and international media outlets were blocked
• Communication between citizens and the outside world was severely limited

These measures effectively silenced the primary channels for opposition organizing and independent reporting, creating an information vacuum during a critical democratic process.

The central figure in this election is President Yoweri Museveni, a leader who has dominated Ugandan politics since taking power in 1986. At 81 years old, he is seeking another term that would extend his rule well into its fifth decade, making him one of Africa's longest-serving leaders.

His main challenger is Bobi Wine, a charismatic former musician whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi. Wine has galvanized a significant portion of Uganda's youth, who make up the majority of the electorate. His campaign has been marked by high-energy rallies and a message of change, but also by violent crackdowns from security forces.

The election is a test of the 81-year-old leader's political strength and ability to avoid the kind of unrest that has rocked neighbours Tanzania and Kenya.

The campaign period was marred by incidents of violence, with opposition supporters and journalists reporting harassment and arrests. This tense environment set the stage for a vote that many feared could descend into chaos, mirroring the disputed elections in neighboring countries that have led to significant political turmoil.

Uganda's election does not exist in a vacuum. The outcome and the process are being closely watched across East Africa, particularly in light of recent instability in the region. The political strength of President Museveni is being tested not just by his domestic opponents, but by the need to maintain a semblance of stability.

Neighboring Tanzania and Kenya have both experienced significant post-election unrest in recent years, with disputes over vote counts and accusations of electoral fraud leading to protests and violence. The international community, including the United Nations, has expressed concern that Uganda could follow a similar path.

The ability of the Ugandan government to manage this election without widespread violence is seen as a key indicator of the region's political health. A peaceful transition, or a credible election result, could bolster stability. Conversely, a disputed outcome could have ripple effects across East Africa.

As the votes are counted, the nation waits in a state of suspended animation. The internet blackout has delayed the release of results from independent monitoring groups, leaving the official tally as the primary source of information. This lack of transparency has raised concerns among observers about the credibility of the electoral process.

President Museveni's camp has expressed confidence in a victory, citing his long-standing support base and the machinery of the state. Bobi Wine's team, however, has alleged widespread irregularities and has urged his supporters to remain vigilant and protect their votes.

The coming days will be critical. The official announcement of results will determine the next steps for the country. Will there be acceptance, or will the tensions that have simmered throughout the campaign boil over into open conflict? The world watches as Uganda stands at a crossroads.

The 2026 Ugandan presidential election was a high-stakes affair, conducted under extraordinary circumstances. The combination of a total internet shutdown and a heavy security presence created an environment unlike any in recent memory.

At its core, the election was a battle for the future of a nation. For President Museveni, it was an opportunity to reaffirm his decades-long rule. For Bobi Wine and his supporters, it was a chance to demand a new direction.

Ultimately, the election serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing democracy in the digital age. As Uganda awaits the final results, the world is reminded that the right to vote is not just about casting a ballot, but about doing so in an environment of freedom and transparency.