The election period has been marred by incidents of violence, and international human rights groups say Dr Besigye's team has suffered the brunt of the intimidation. President Museveni, with his National Resistance Movement, has ruled Uganda since 1986, after fighting a five-year bush war to rid the country of the dictator Milton Obote. President Museveni says a multi-party system would be bad for Uganda because it would encourage ethnic divisions. His opponents say this is an excuse which allows the National Resistance Movement to continue as the de facto ruling party in a single-party state. One of President Museveni's strongest campaign cards has been the performance of the economy.
Coffee is the main export commodity, followed by cotton and tea.
The president has won the praise of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank for following their strict guidelines. Primary school attendance has doubled. Over the years President Museveni has become a pivotal regional figure, but he still retains a homely appeal. On the podium he can charm the crowds. He often dresses casually, and likes to sport a wide-brimmed hat.