Technical failures at polling places have caused disruptions, and the opposition has warned of government vote rigging amid an internet blackout.

KAMPALA, Uganda -- Uganda’s presidential election was plagued by widespread delays Thursday in addition to a days-long internet shutdown that has been criticized as an anti-democratic tactic in a country where the president has held office since 1986.

Ugandans are voting in a tense presidential election as 81-year-old President Yoweri Museveni seeks to extend his four-decade rule amid an internet shutdown and heavy military deployment.

Millions of Ugandans will Thursday cast their votes in a crucial presidential rematch between a former pop star and their long-time authoritarian leader, who aims to prolong his nearly 40-year rule.