Uganda's opposition leader Bobi Wine claimed massive ballot stuffing and the arrest of his party's officials during Thursday's general election, which occurred amidst an internet shutdown. Wine, a pop star turned politician, posted on X that there were reports of widespread ballot stuffing, arrests of party leaders, and abduction or expulsion of polling agents and supervisors.

Voting in the election, which is widely expected to extend President Yoweri Museveni's nearly 40-year rule, experienced delays in several areas. Wine urged voters to "RISE TO THE OCCASION AND REJECT THE CRIMINAL REGIME."

The allegations of ballot stuffing and voter suppression come as Uganda navigates a tense political climate. The government shut down the internet ahead of the election, a move critics say was intended to stifle dissent and prevent the dissemination of information about alleged irregularities. This action raises concerns about transparency and the ability of citizens to freely access information during the electoral process.

Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is seeking a sixth term. His administration has faced increasing criticism over human rights abuses, corruption, and restrictions on political freedoms. Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has emerged as a formidable challenger, galvanizing young voters with his message of change.

The election is taking place against a backdrop of heightened security, with military and police deployed across the country. Observers have expressed concerns about the fairness of the election, citing restrictions on the media and civil society organizations. The African Union and the East African Community have deployed observer missions to monitor the polls.

The outcome of the election and the response to Wine's allegations could have significant implications for Uganda's political stability and its relations with international partners. The focus now shifts to the electoral commission's announcement of the results and any potential legal challenges that may arise.