Ugandan authorities have rejected claims that they intend to block internet access during next week’s general election, following renewed concerns from opposition figures and civil society groups.
The issue resurfaced after the main opposition candidate alleged that the government planned to shut down the internet to prevent supporters from organising and sharing election results. These fears intensified on Friday when satellite internet provider Starlink restricted its services in Uganda after receiving an order from the country’s communications regulator.
President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power for nearly four decades, is seeking to extend his rule in elections scheduled for 15 January. His main challenger is opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, a former pop star turned politician.
Uganda previously experienced a nationwide internet shutdown during the disputed 2021 elections, when access was cut for four days amid widespread protests in which dozens of people were killed.
Despite this history, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has insisted there are no plans for a blackout. UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo described reports of an internet shutdown as “mere rumours,” stating that the commission’s mandate is to ensure uninterrupted connectivity across the country.
This position was echoed by Amina Zawedde, the permanent secretary at the Ministry of Communications and National Guidance, who said the government had not announced or implemented any decision to block the internet during the election period. She warned against the spread of false or inflammatory content online and stressed that digital platforms are subject to Ugandan law.
Zawedde added that only the Electoral Commission is authorised to announce official election results, and that publishing unverified or premature results is illegal. She emphasised that freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and within legal limits.
At the same time, the government has imposed restrictions on live broadcasts of riots, unlawful demonstrations and violent incidents ahead of the vote, arguing that such coverage could heighten tensions and cause public panic.
Despite official assurances, Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) has launched an offline vote-monitoring application in preparation for a possible internet disruption. The app, known as Bitchart, uses Bluetooth technology to allow the sharing of polling station results without an internet connection.
In his New Year’s address, Bobi Wine said the government was planning an internet shutdown similar to those imposed during previous elections, accusing authorities of trying to block communication, prevent verification of results and suppress public accountability.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International has accused Ugandan security forces of using torture and arbitrary arrests to intimidate opposition supporters. The organisation says it has documented beatings and tear gas attacks targeting backers of the opposition. The BBC has sought a response from the authorities.
President Museveni first came to power in 1986 after leading a rebel force into Kampala. He has since won six elections, with opposition parties repeatedly alleging fraud and intimidation — claims the government has consistently denied.
