Uganda has ordered an indefinite nationwide internet shutdown just two days before its general election.
The directive, issued by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), has resulted in the blocking of internet services across the country, including social media platforms, messaging applications, and virtual private networks (VPNs).
“The suspension is effective 13th January 2026, at 1800hrs and will remain in force until a restoration notice is issued by UCC. During this period, all non-essential public internet traffic must be blocked,” stated UCC Executive Director Thembo Nyombi.
The shutdown comes amid heightened security operations as President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni seeks to extend his more than four decades in power.
This move has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups and opposition leaders who say it threatens access to information and undermines the credibility of the electoral process.
The decision follows last week’s restriction of satellite internet services provided by Starlink, an American firm owned by SpaceX.
Starlink had earlier confirmed that it blocked access to its services in Uganda at the request of the UCC, citing regulatory concerns.
At the time, the Ugandan government denied plans to impose broader internet restrictions ahead of the polls.
However, the situation changed rapidly, with authorities now enforcing a complete digital blackout nationwide. Rights groups say the move signals an escalation in state control over information during a politically sensitive period.
Human rights organisations argue that the shutdown severely limits citizens’ ability to access news, communicate with one another, and monitor the electoral process.
They warn that restricting digital platforms during elections compromises transparency and prevents independent reporting of voting, tallying, and potential irregularities.
The internet blackout coincides with reports of increased arrests of opposition supporters across several regions and a heavy military and police presence in major towns and transport corridors.
Civil society groups say these developments create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation that discourages public participation in the democratic process.
Opposition leaders have accused the government of using security measures to suppress dissent and restrict political organising. Social media and messaging platforms have been key tools for mobilisation and election observation in Uganda, particularly among young voters and independent journalists.
A week earlier, government officials publicly dismissed claims that internet services would be shut down, insisting that citizens would retain access throughout the election period.
The sudden reversal has raised questions about transparency and the government’s commitment to a free and fair vote.
Uganda has previously imposed similar restrictions during elections, most notably in 2021, when a nationwide internet shutdown was enforced during voting and tallying.
Critics argue that the repeated use of digital blackouts reflects a broader pattern of shrinking civic space and declining democratic freedoms.
President Museveni, 81, is seeking another term in office after ruling Uganda for more than 40 years. His continued grip on power has been met with strong opposition, particularly from younger voters and civil rights groups demanding political reforms.
Regional observers note that Uganda’s internet shutdown mirrors a growing trend across parts of East Africa, where governments increasingly restrict digital access during elections.
Rights advocates warn that such measures violate freedom of expression, assembly, and the right of citizens to participate in public affairs without intimidation.
As Ugandans head to the polls amid a communications blackout, concerns remain high over the transparency, inclusivity, and credibility of the electoral process.