Ugandan authorities have denied reports that they plan to shut down internet access during the country’s presidential election scheduled for next week.
The government’s response follows growing concern from opposition groups and civil society, who fear that internet restrictions could be used to limit communication, organisation, and the sharing of election results.
Opposition Raises Alarm Over Possible Internet Block
Last week, Uganda’s main opposition candidate repeated claims that the government was preparing to block the internet during the election period. He said such a move would prevent his supporters from mobilising and from sharing information about voting and results.
These concerns increased on Friday when satellite internet provider Starlink restricted its services in Uganda. The company said it was acting on instructions from the national communications regulator. While the government has not explained the decision in detail, the move raised fears of a wider internet shutdown.
Uganda has a history of internet restrictions during elections. In the 2021 presidential vote, authorities cut internet access nationwide for four days. That election period was marked by protests, clashes with security forces, and reports of dozens of deaths.
Government Rejects Blackout Claims
Ugandan officials have strongly rejected suggestions that a similar shutdown will happen this year.
Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), said reports of an internet blackout were “mere rumours.” Speaking to Kampala-based Capital FM, he said the commission’s responsibility is to ensure that internet and communication services remain available across the country.
“As of now, there is no resolution to switch off the internet,” Thembo said.
This position was echoed by Amina Zawedde, the most senior official at the Ministry of Communications and National Guidance. She said the government has not issued any directive to block internet services during the election.
“Government has not announced, directed, or implemented any decision to shut down the internet during the election period,” Zawedde said. She described the reports as false and misleading, warning that they could create fear among the public.
Restrictions on Media Coverage Remain
Despite denying plans for an internet shutdown, the government has introduced other restrictions ahead of the election.
Authorities have banned live broadcasts of riots, violent incidents, and what they describe as “unlawful processions.” Officials argue that broadcasting such events in real time could increase panic and worsen tensions during the sensitive election period.
Critics say the restrictions could limit press freedom and reduce public access to information about events on the ground.
Government Warns Against Online Misuse
Zawedde also warned citizens to be cautious about how they use digital platforms during the election.
She said online activity is fully covered by Uganda’s laws, including the Computer Misuse Act. According to the law, spreading false information or offensive content online is a criminal offence.
“Digital platforms are not exempt from the law,” she said.
She also stressed that only the Electoral Commission has the authority to announce official election results. Sharing unverified or early results is illegal and could lead to prosecution.
“Freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and within the framework of the law,” Zawedde said.
Opposition Prepares for Possible Shutdown
Despite the government’s assurances, the main opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), says it is preparing for all scenarios.
The party has launched an offline vote-monitoring application called Bitchart. The app was unveiled by NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine.
According to Bobi Wine, the app uses Bluetooth technology to share photos of official results forms and voting data between nearby devices. This allows information to be exchanged even if internet access is blocked.
He said the tool is designed to help citizens verify results and protect the integrity of the vote.
“As we all know, the regime is plotting an internet shutdown, as they have done in past elections,” Bobi Wine said in his New Year’s address. He accused the government of trying to block communication and prevent public scrutiny of the results.
Tense Political Climate Ahead of Vote
The election, set for 15 January, will see President Yoweri Museveni seek to extend his rule, which began in 1986. If re-elected, Museveni would continue a presidency that has lasted nearly four decades.
His main challenger is Bobi Wine, a former pop star who has become one of the most prominent opposition figures in the country. Wine has strong support among young voters but has repeatedly accused the government of harassment and intimidation.
The government has denied these accusations.
Human Rights Concerns Raised
As political tensions rise, Amnesty International has accused Ugandan security forces of using violence and intimidation against opposition supporters.
The rights group says it has evidence of arbitrary arrests, beatings, and the use of tear gas against supporters of the National Unity Platform. Amnesty has called on authorities to respect human rights and ensure a peaceful election.
The BBC has requested a response from the Ugandan government regarding these claims.
A Familiar Pattern
Museveni has been elected six times since taking power, with each election followed by opposition claims of fraud and intimidation. The government has consistently rejected these allegations.
As Uganda approaches another closely watched vote, questions about internet access, media freedom, and political space remain central to public debate.
While authorities insist that the internet will remain online, opposition groups and observers say trust will depend on what happens on election day.