Supporters of Ugandan opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, known as Bobi Wine, during an election rally in Kampala on January 12, 2026. SAMSON OTIENO / AP
Ugandan authorities shut down internet access nationwide on Tuesday, January 13, two days ahead of elections in which President Yoweri Museveni has overseen a crackdown on the opposition as he seeks to extend his 40-year rule. The 81-year-old leader, who once said African rulers should not overstay their time in office, is widely expected to win a seventh term on Thursday due to his total control over state and security bodies.
But he is taking no chances against a popular opponent, Bobi Wine, a 43-year-old singer-turned-politician, who has drawn large crowds to his rallies despite violent repression from the security forces.
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Being gay in Uganda, where the death penalty looms
