Ugandan authorities say they are keeping an eye on the upcoming elections that are due in neighbouring Kenya and Rwanda.
Uganda on high alert as Kenya,Rwanda head to the polls
Uganda is keenly monitoring crucial polls in both nations and more so in Kenya given its history of tense elections
The Daily Mirror says that the Prime Minister chaired a meeting last week to chart the way forward on Uganda’s state of preparedness with regards to the two polls given the effects that the Kenyan polls especially could have on Uganda if violence results.
The ministers also agreed that there is no need to issue a travel advisory to the two countries though the country would continue monitoring the situation and the borders with the two nations closely.
The State minister for International Relations, Mr Okello Oryem, said Uganda’s main worry is on the fuel supply side and a few basic commodities.
“This time we are fully prepared for any eventualities and each line ministry is working around the clock,” Mr Oryem said. He noted that even though fuel supply will be Uganda’s biggest headache, they had reserves to last for three weeks.
The 2007 post-election violence that claimed more than 1,000 lives and displaced about 600,000 people left Uganda writhing in shortage of fuel and other essential commodities imported.
Kenya’s elections have always been a dodgy affair, usually underlined with ethnic undercurrents. It is often the focus of continental and global players due to its sensitivity.
The polls are less than a week away and the main focus will be on the two Presidential Candidates namely incumbent president Uhuru Kenyatta(Jubilee Party) against four-time presidential aspirant Raila Odinga( National Super Alliance Party).
Rwanda, itself will be holding its third ‘multiparty presidential elections’ on Friday, August 4 which will pit Incumbent Paul Kagame against main opposition candidate, Frank Habineza.
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