Uganda to Shut Down Internet Ahead of 2026 General Elections
Uganda has announced a nationwide internet shutdown ahead of its January 15, 2026, general elections, citing security and anti-misinformation measures. The suspension, scheduled to begin Tuesday, January 13, at 6 pm, will remain in effect until further notice.
The Ugandan Communications Commission (UCC) confirmed the move, with Executive Director Nyombi Thembo explaining that it aims to prevent the spread of disinformation and maintain national security during the politically tense election period.
UCC Orders Telecoms to Suspend Services
Mr. Thembo noted that the internet blackout follows a “strong recommendation” from the Inter-Agency Security Committee to curb misinformation and electoral fraud, which can fuel violence and threaten stability.
Telecom operators across Uganda have been instructed to:
- Suspend public internet access
- Halt the sale and registration of new SIM cards
- Disable outbound data roaming to the East African One Network Area
- Block social media platforms, web browsing, video streaming, email, and messaging services
- Disconnect VPN services from their networks
The shutdown affects all mobile networks, broadband providers, leased lines, fixed wireless access, microwave radio links, satellite internet services, and mobile network virtual operators.
Political Context and Opposition Response
The shutdown occurs as President Yoweri Museveni seeks to extend his 40-year rule. His main challenger is Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, a former pop star and youthful opposition leader with significant grassroots support.
In response, the opposition party, National Unity Platform (NUP), has launched an offline vote-monitoring app, called Bitchart, which uses Bluetooth technology to share voting results and polling data without relying on the internet.
This is not the first time Uganda has shut down internet access during elections. In the 2021 polls, a similar blackout lasted four days and sparked widespread protests with multiple casualties.
Concerns Over Human Rights and Electoral Fairness
Critics argue that the shutdown raises human rights and political fairness concerns, particularly as social media plays a key role in campaigning and voter mobilisation.
The move comes shortly after Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, was directed to cease operations in Uganda over regulatory issues, intensifying fears over restricted access to independent information during elections.
Similar measures have recently been observed in Tanzania and Cameroon, where internet suspensions were implemented during periods of election-related unrest.
Outlook
With the internet blackout now in place, Uganda’s elections face heightened scrutiny from human rights groups and international observers, who warn that such measures may affect transparency, voter engagement, and the perception of a free and fair electoral process.
