Google today joined Uganda citizens in celebrating the country’s 51 Independence anniversary with a special doodle.

Uganda, got its Independence from Britain in October 9 1962 and has had a stable political leadership from the ruling NRM regime though a section of citizens claim the incumbent leader, President Yoweri Museveni is dictatorial and is grooming his son to take over power from him. Known as the pearl of Africa, Uganda has enjoyed peace under the regime since the NRM government took over power in 1986.

Today’s celebrations were held in Western Uganda and were attended by Museveni’s arch-rival Kizza Besygye who has reportedly been arrested after walking away from the proceedings.

Originally started in 1998, Google Doodle’s are used to celebrate major holidays, anniversaries, and the lives of famous artists, pioneers, and scientists. Google has to date created over 1000 doodles for such holidays and artists around the world.