With just 48 hours to go until Uganda decides, the political temperature in Kampala has hit the boiling point. Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, has issued a "Red Alert," claiming to have evidence of a military plot to rig the Thursday vote in favor of President Yoweri Museveni.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) leader addressed a massive, restless crowd in downtown Kampala, urging them to "protect their vote" by remaining at polling stations. "They have already printed the fake ballots," Wine alleged, without providing immediate proof. "But the world is watching. If they steal it this time, we will not go to court; we will go to the streets."

The "Generational War"

The election is framed as a battle of generations. Museveni, 81, has ruled since 1986. Bobi Wine, 43, represents a populace where 75% are under the age of 30. The streets are awash with heavily armed military personnel, a visual reminder of the state's coercive power.

• The State's Response: The ruling NRM party has dismissed the rigging claims as "the desperate cries of a loser." Police spokesman Fred Enanga warned that any "illegal assemblies" would be met with "maximum force."
• Internet Fears: Civil society groups fear a repeat of the 2021 internet blackout. NetBlocks has already reported throttling of social media servers in parts of the country this morning.

A Region on Edge

Kenya and Tanzania are watching closely. Instability in Uganda, a key trade corridor for the Great Lakes region, would have immediate economic ripple effects. For now, Kampala holds its breath, waiting to see if Thursday brings a democratic transition or a violent crackdown.