Ugandan authorities have dismissed reports that the internet will be shut down during next week’s general elections, calling the claims false and misleading.
The concerns were raised by opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who has repeatedly warned that the government could block internet access to disrupt mobilisation and the sharing of election results.
Speculation grew stronger on Friday after satellite internet provider Starlink limited its services in Uganda, following a directive from the national communications regulator.
Uganda goes to the polls on 15 January, with long-serving President Yoweri Museveni seeking to extend his rule, now nearing 40 years. His main challenger is Bobi Wine, a former pop star turned politician. The vote comes amid memories of the 2021 elections, which were marked by violence, dozens of deaths, and a four-day nationwide internet blackout.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has insisted there are no plans to cut internet access. Executive Director Nyombi Thembo told Capital FM that talk of a shutdown was “mere rumours,” stressing that the regulator’s role is to ensure continuous connectivity.
Similar assurances came from the Ministry of Communications and National Guidance. Permanent Secretary Amina Zawedde said the government had neither announced nor implemented any decision to block the internet during the election period.
However, Zawedde cautioned against the misuse of digital platforms, noting that online activity is governed by the Computer Misuse Act. She warned that publishing false or offensive information online is illegal, and emphasised that only the Electoral Commission is authorised to announce official election results.
Despite the government’s assurances, Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) says it is preparing for all scenarios. The party has rolled out an offline vote-monitoring application, known as Bitchart, which uses Bluetooth technology to share polling station results without relying on internet access.
In a New Year message, Bobi Wine said past elections showed the risk of an internet blackout intended to stop citizens from communicating, verifying results, and demanding accountability.
Political tensions remain high. Amnesty International has accused Ugandan security forces of intimidation, including arbitrary arrests and the use of force against opposition supporters—allegations the government has denied.
President Museveni has been in power since 1986, after his rebel movement captured Kampala. He has since won six elections, amid repeated opposition claims of fraud and intimidation, which the government has consistently rejected.
