Uganda Dismisses Claims of Planned Internet Shutdown Ahead of Election

Ugandan authorities have denied allegations that they intend to shut down internet access during next week’s general election, following rising concerns from opposition figures and civil society groups.

Speculation intensified after the main opposition candidate repeated claims that the government planned to block the internet to prevent supporters from mobilising and sharing election results. The concerns were further fuelled on Friday when satellite internet provider Starlink restricted its services in Uganda after receiving an order from the country’s communications regulator.

However, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) dismissed the reports as unfounded. UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo said there was no decision to suspend internet services, insisting that the commission’s mandate is to ensure uninterrupted connectivity nationwide.

“As of now, there is no resolution to switch off the internet,” Thembo told Kampala-based Capital FM.

President Yoweri Museveni is seeking to extend his nearly 40-year rule in the January 15 election. His main challenger is Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, a former pop star and leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP).

Memories of the 2021 election, when internet access was cut for four days amid widespread protests that left dozens dead, have heightened public anxiety. Ahead of the upcoming vote, the government has also banned live broadcasts of riots, “unlawful processions” and violent incidents, arguing that such coverage could escalate tensions and cause panic.

Despite official assurances, the opposition has taken precautionary measures. The NUP has unveiled an offline vote-monitoring application called Bitchart, designed to function without internet access. Bobi Wine said the app uses Bluetooth technology to share images of polling station result forms and voting data.

In his New Year’s address, Kyagulanyi accused the government of plotting another internet shutdown to hinder communication, verification of results and public accountability—claims the authorities have denied.

Museveni, who first came to power in 1986 after leading rebel forces into Kampala, has since won six elections. Opposition parties have repeatedly alleged fraud and intimidation, accusations the government continues to reject.