Uganda Imposes Internet Blackout Ahead of Thursday’s Election

Uganda’s communications authority has ordered all service providers to suspend internet access nationwide ahead of Thursday’s general election, citing public safety concerns.

In a directive issued Tuesday evening, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) said the blackout was intended to prevent “online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and incitement of violence.” The suspension began at 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT), though no timeline was given for restoration.

Mobile data users reported immediate disruptions, while some business facilities such as large hotels continued to enjoy limited wireless connectivity. Voice calls and SMS services remain operational.

The move comes despite earlier assurances from the UCC that reports of a blackout were “mere rumours.” During the last election in 2021, internet access was cut for at least a week amid widespread protests in which dozens were killed.

Thursday’s vote is a rematch between President Yoweri Museveni, 81, who has ruled for four decades, and opposition leader Bobi Wine (Robert Kyagulanyi), 43, a former pop star. Museveni is seeking a seventh successive term under the slogan “Protecting the Gains”, while Wine is rallying supporters with a “Protest Vote” campaign calling for generational change.

Wine published the UCC’s letter about the shutdown on X, urging supporters to use a Bluetooth‑based app to stay connected. The UCC responded that it has the capability to restrict such applications. Wine condemned the blackout, calling those behind it “cowards.”

Security agencies, including the army and police, recommended the suspension as a “precautionary intervention to ensure peace and protect national stability.”

With six other candidates also contesting, the blackout has raised concerns about transparency and communication during one of Africa’s most closely watched elections.