Uganda Imposes Internet Blackout Ahead of Presidential Election. Kampala, Uganda — Ugandan authorities have implemented a nationwide internet blackout in the days preceding the presidential election, raising concerns about political repression and the fairness of the electoral process.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) ordered mobile network operators to block public internet access starting at 6pm (15:00 GMT) on the day before the election, according to official statements.
The internet blackout coincides with a series of measures taken by the government to suppress dissent and control the narrative leading up to the January 15 vote. Security personnel have detained hundreds of opposition supporters and used live bullets and tear gas against pro-opposition rallies.
Additionally, opposition figure Kizza Besigye, who has challenged incumbent President Yoweri Museveni in four previous elections, is currently jailed on charges of treason.
According to independent observers, the internet shutdown is part of a broader clampdown on freedom of expression and assembly.
The Uganda Communications Commission defended the blackout, stating it was necessary to “curb misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and related risks. ” This is not the first time Uganda has experienced an internet blackout during an election.
In 2021, authorities imposed a similar blackout, which coincided with reports of state violence and electoral manipulation. Despite promises to maintain internet access this time, the government’s reversal has sparked criticism from both domestic and international observers. Regional officials have expressed concern about the situation in Uganda, with the United Nations Human Rights Office criticising the authorities for creating an environment of “widespread repression and intimidation” before the vote.
The Brussels — based International Crisis Group has assessed that Museveni, who has been in power for over 40 years, has “re-election all but locked down. ” Museveni, Africa’s third-longest-serving leader, is expected to win the upcoming election, which features him facing off against pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine. Wine views his candidacy as a campaign against impunity but does not believe he will receive a free or fair election.
The Uganda Communications Commission has also ordered two local rights groups, Chapter Four Uganda and Human Rights Network for Journalists — Uganda, to halt their work.
The state — run National Bureau for NGOs accused Chapter Four Uganda of engaging in activities “prejudicial” to Uganda’s security. Further details are expected as the situation develops.
The government has not yet commented on the potential lifting of the internet blackout or the release of opposition figure Kizza Besigye.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
