Bobi Wine's Contingency Plans Amid Internet Shutdown Concerns in Uganda

As Uganda approaches its presidential elections scheduled for January 15, 2026, concerns regarding potential internet shutdowns have resurfaced. Historically, such shutdowns have been employed to limit communication and hinder the monitoring of electoral processes. Bobi Wine, a prominent opposition leader and presidential candidate, has articulated a contingency plan to maintain communication with his supporters in anticipation of these disruptions.

Bobi Wine unveils plans to bypass possible internet shutdown during Ugandan elections

Bobi Wine has publicly stated his belief that the Ugandan government is planning an internet shutdown similar to those seen in previous elections. In a post shared on X, he emphasized the need for alternative communication methods to ensure that citizens can organize and verify election results. To this end, he introduced an offline application called "Bitchat," which allows users to communicate without internet access. This app enables supporters to share critical information, including images of Declaration of Results (DR) Forms, securely and quickly.

Bobi Wine unveils plans to bypass possible internet shutdown during Ugandan elections

In response to the rising speculation about internet restrictions, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has discredited a circulating notice that falsely claimed an impending nationwide internet shutdown. The UCC clarified that the notice was fabricated and warned the public to rely solely on verified communication channels for accurate information. The commission emphasized that it does not possess the authority to enforce such a shutdown without formal legal procedures.

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Compounding the concerns about internet access, satellite internet provider Starlink has blocked Uganda from its network as of January 1, 2026. This action followed a complaint from the UCC regarding the illegal provision of telecommunication services in the country. Starlink's director, Ben MacWilliams, confirmed that the company had implemented a service restriction tool, effectively disabling all Starlink terminals in Uganda. This decision has raised alarms about the implications for information flow during the critical election period.

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The suspension of Starlink services and the potential for internet shutdowns have intensified discussions about digital freedoms and regulatory control in Uganda. Observers note that the regulation of satellite communications could significantly impact the dissemination of information during and after the elections. The recent customs restrictions on Starlink equipment further illustrate the government's tightening grip on digital communication technologies.

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Critics of the Ugandan government, including Bobi Wine, argue that these measures are designed to suppress electoral transparency and limit citizens' ability to hold authorities accountable. The opposition views the anticipated internet shutdowns as a tactic to facilitate electoral fraud and undermine democratic processes.

Bobi Wine unveils plans to bypass possible internet shutdown during Ugandan elections

As the January 15 elections draw near, the situation remains fluid. Bobi Wine's preparations reflect a proactive approach to circumvent potential communication barriers, while the UCC's denials of shutdown rumors aim to quell public anxiety. The ongoing developments regarding Starlink and other digital communication technologies will likely play a crucial role in shaping the electoral landscape in Uganda.

Bobi Wine unveils plans to bypass possible internet shutdown during Ugandan elections

• “ug “As we all know, the regime is plotting an internet shutdown in the coming days, as they have done in all previous elections.” — Bobi Wine, Presidential Aspirant

Bobi Wine unveils plans to bypass possible internet shutdown during Ugandan elections

• “There is no UCC directive ordering bank withdrawals, mobile money shutdowns, or an internet blackout ahead of the 2026 elections.” — Uganda Communications Commission

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• “As a result, as of 01 January 2026, there are no Starlink terminals operating in Uganda,” — Ben MacWilliams, Starlink Director of Market Access

Starlink Blocks Uganda From Its Satellite Network After UCC Complaint