Ugandan authorities have imposed a nationwide internet blackout days before the presidential election, a move aimed at curbing misinformation and ensuring stability as President Yoweri Museveni seeks to extend his 40-year rule. The blackout, which began on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM local time, has heightened concerns about repression and the integrity of the upcoming vote.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) instructed mobile network operators to suspend public internet access, justifying the decision on grounds of public safety to prevent online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and incitement of violence. This intervention was made on a strong recommendation from security agencies, including the army and police, to protect national stability during the sensitive electoral period. Users reported losing mobile data connectivity, although some business facilities maintained wireless access, and basic voice and SMS services remained operational.
Thursday’s presidential election is a rematch of the 2021 contest, with 81-year-old President Yoweri Museveni facing off against 43-year-old former pop star Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi. Museveni, Africa’s third-longest-serving leader, is vying for his seventh term, campaigning on a message of “Protecting the Gains” for continuity and stability. In contrast, Bobi Wine is mobilizing supporters with the slogan “Protest Vote,” emphasizing urgency and generational change in a country with a young population.
The internet shutdown is part of a broader crackdown by Museveni’s government ahead of the vote. Security forces have rounded up hundreds of opposition supporters and repeatedly used live bullets and tear gas at pro-Wine campaign rallies. Additionally, the government ordered two local rights groups, Chapter Four Uganda and Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda, to halt their work, accusing them of activities prejudicial to national security.
Bobi Wine has condemned the internet blackout, describing those behind it as “cowards” and releasing the UCC’s letter on social media platform X. He encouraged his supporters to download an app designed for communication via Bluetooth technology, although the UCC warned it could restrict such apps. The opposition leader expressed skepticism about holding a free and fair election under these conditions.
International observers have criticized Uganda’s actions. The United Nations Human Rights Office has warned of an environment of “widespread repression and intimidation,” while the Brussels-based International Crisis Group assessed that Museveni, with his firm grip on state power, has re-election “all but locked down.” Experts like Kristof Titeca from Antwerp University note that the government’s clampdown has made it “too dangerous” for the opposition to effectively organize.
This is not the first time Uganda has resorted to internet restrictions during elections. During the 2021 vote, which saw widespread protests and dozens killed, the internet was cut for at least a week. Authorities had initially denied plans for a blackout this year, with the UCC calling such reports “mere rumours” in early January, but reversed course as the election approached.
The implications of these measures are significant for Uganda’s democracy and human rights. With 21.6 million registered voters in a nation of roughly 45 million people, the election’s outcome could shape the country’s future direction. As voting proceeds on Thursday, the world watches closely to see if the process will be credible and peaceful amidst the heightened tensions and restrictions.
