Uganda Orders Internet Shutdown Ahead of General Election

Uganda’s communications authority has ordered a nationwide suspension of internet services ahead of Thursday’s general election, citing public safety concerns and the need to prevent misinformation, electoral fraud, and violence. The shutdown, which began Tuesday evening, follows recommendations from security agencies, though voice calls and SMS remain active. The move mirrors the 2021 election period when internet access was also cut amid deadly protests. The election is a rematch between long-time President Yoweri Museveni and opposition leader Bobi Wine, who has condemned the shutdown as an attempt to silence dissent.

Uganda’s communications authority has directed all telecommunications service providers in the country to suspend internet access ahead of Thursday’s general election. The authority said the decision was taken in the interest of public safety, explaining that the move was aimed at preventing the spread of “online misinformation, disinformation and electoral fraud,” as well as stopping the incitement of violence during the election period.
Earlier in the month, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) had dismissed reports suggesting an impending internet blackout, describing such claims as “mere rumours.” At the time, the commission stated that its responsibility was to ensure uninterrupted internet connectivity across the country. Despite those assurances, the directive has now been confirmed, reflecting a shift in the commission’s position as the election approaches.
Uganda has experienced similar measures in the past. During the 2021 general election, which was marked by widespread protests and civil unrest that reportedly led to the deaths of dozens of people, internet access was shut down for at least a week.
In its latest statement, the UCC announced that the suspension of internet services would take effect from 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT) on Tuesday. However, the commission did not specify when internet access would be restored. Since the announcement, many users relying on standard mobile data services have reported an inability to access the internet. Nevertheless, some business establishments, including large hotels, have continued to enjoy wireless internet connectivity. The commission clarified that voice calls and basic SMS services are expected to remain functional throughout the period of the suspension.
According to the UCC, the decision was made following what it described as “a strong recommendation” from security agencies, including the army and the police. In a letter addressed to mobile network operators, the commission explained that the move was intended as a precautionary measure. It stated that the temporary suspension was designed to ensure peace, protect national stability, and prevent the misuse of communication platforms during what it described as a sensitive national exercise.
Thursday’s presidential election is a repeat of the closely contested 2021 race. Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, now 81 years old and in power for nearly four decades, is once again facing a challenge from 43-year-old opposition leader Bobi Wine. Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, is a former pop star who has emerged as a leading figure among younger voters. In addition to Museveni and Bobi Wine, there are six other candidates contesting the presidency.
President Museveni is seeking a seventh consecutive electoral victory and has built his campaign around the theme of “Protecting the Gains,” a message that emphasizes continuity, experience, and national stability. In contrast, Bobi Wine has framed his campaign around the slogan “Protest Vote,” which underscores a call for urgency, reform, and generational change.
Bobi Wine made public the UCC’s letter announcing the internet shutdown by sharing it on X, formerly known as Twitter. In response to the suspension, he urged his supporters to download an application designed to enable communication via Bluetooth technology, allowing users to exchange information without relying on internet access. However, the UCC has warned that it possesses the technical capacity to restrict the operation of such applications if necessary.
Reacting strongly to the internet suspension, Bobi Wine condemned those responsible for the decision, describing them as “cowards,” and accused the authorities of attempting to suppress communication and limit transparency during the electoral process.