Uganda’s communications authority has ordered all service providers to suspend internet access ahead of Thursday’s general election. The move is justified as a public safety measure to prevent “online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and the incitement of violence.”
Earlier this month, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) dismissed reports of a potential blackout as “mere rumours,” emphasizing its role in ensuring nationwide connectivity. However, during the 2021 elections, internet access was cut for at least a week amid widespread protests that left dozens dead.
The UCC instructed providers to implement the suspension from 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT) on Tuesday, without specifying when services will resume. While mobile data users have already reported outages, some business facilities, such as large hotels, continue to maintain connectivity. Voice calls and basic SMS services are expected to remain operational.
In its letter to operators, the UCC said the shutdown follows “a strong recommendation” from security agencies, including the army and police. The letter described the suspension as “a precautionary intervention to ensure peace, protect national stability, and prevent misuse of communication platforms during a sensitive national exercise.”
Thursday’s election is a rematch of 2021, with 81-year-old President Yoweri Museveni, in power for four decades, seeking a seventh term, and 43-year-old former pop star Bobi Wine (Robert Kyagulanyi) challenging him. Six other candidates are also in the race.
Museveni’s campaign focuses on continuity and stability, while Bobi Wine has mobilized supporters with the slogan “Protest Vote,” emphasizing generational change. The opposition leader shared the UCC’s letter on X and urged supporters to use a Bluetooth-based communication app, though the UCC warned it could block the app. Bobi Wine described the internet shutdown as the act of “cowards.”
During past elections, internet restrictions and heavy security presence have sparked concerns about voter intimidation and suppression. With tensions high, the eyes of the world are on Uganda as it heads to the polls once again.
