Uganda’s communications regulator ordered a nationwide internet blackout Tuesday ahead of Thursday’s presidential election, citing risks of misinformation and violence, in a move echoing tactics used during the 2021 vote that drew international condemnation.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) directed providers to suspend non-essential online services indefinitely from 6:00 pm (1500 GMT), blocking social media, web browsing, video streaming, emails, and messaging apps, while exempting healthcare and electoral bodies.
“The measure is necessary to mitigate the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud and related risks, as well as preventing incitement of violence,” the UCC stated in its directive.
It added: “The suspension… will remain in force until a restoration notice is issued by the UCC. During this period, all non-essential public internet traffic must be blocked.”
The ban also halts new SIM card sales, registrations, and roaming to neighboring countries, with sanctions threatened for non-compliance.
President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986 after parliament abolished term limits in 2005, faces challenger Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, in a contest marred by opposition arrests and allegations of suppression.
The blackout, similar to one in 2021 that sparked deadly protests, will prevent real-time election updates from local media, potentially stifling scrutiny in the East African nation.
