Uganda Cuts Internet Days Before Presidential Election
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- Ugandan authorities blocked internet service nationwide ahead of the national election, citing concerns over the "weaponization of the internet" and misinformation, according to the Uganda Communications Commission.
- President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, is seeking a seventh term and is expected to win against main challenger Bobi Wine, a former pop singer popular among urban youth.
- Critics argue the internet shutdown aims to prevent protests in the event of Museveni's defeat, while Bobi Wine accuses the electoral commission of vote rigging amid reports of abductions and state violence against his supporters.
- Election results are anticipated to be announced over the weekend following Thursday’s vote.
