Uganda’s general elections close, vote counting starts

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President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda
President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda

Millions of Ugandans yesterday turned out to vote in an election that will see a new president and legislators.

Polling started at 7am in most parts of the country, although in the capital Kampala and neighbouring districts, there was a delay for several hours.

The European Union (EU) Chief Observer of the election told reporters earlier that the process in different parts of the country was peaceful.

“So far the process is peaceful, calm, relaxed. There are many people queued in front of polling stations,” Eduard Kukan, EU Chief Observer said.
Badru Kiggundu, Chairperson Electoral Commission, told reporters that the delay of voting in some parts of Kampala and neighbouring areas was as a result of the slow distribution of voting materials.

He appealed to Ugandans to remain calm during the election process.

Earlier in the day, Social Media was temporarily switched off.

Godfrey Mutabazi, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission, a state owned agency, said social media was switched off for security purposes.

He did not give details.

Police Chief Gen. Kale Kayihura on Wednesday said social media was being abused to create tension during the election.

Over 15,2 million voters, according to the Electoral Commission, are expected to have voted in an election, where incumbent President Yoweri Museveni who has been in power for the last 30 years will face off with two main rivals, Kizza Besigye of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change, and Amama Mbabazi, former prime minister. – Xinhua.

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