Uganda Dismisses Claims of Second Internet Shutdown Following Elections

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) announced the full restoration of public internet access on January 18, 2026, following the conclusion of the 2026 General Elections held on January 15. This decision came after a comprehensive security assessment, which UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo described as a necessary measure to safeguard public order and the integrity of the electoral process. The internet had been suspended on January 13, two days prior to the elections, to prevent the spread of misinformation and electoral fraud.

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The internet shutdown was implemented amid a tense political climate, as President Yoweri Museveni sought a seventh term in office, extending his rule beyond four decades. The UCC cited recommendations from security agencies to restrict internet access during this sensitive period. Critics, including opposition leaders, raised concerns over the transparency and fairness of the elections, which led to heightened public anxiety and the spread of misinformation online.

Uganda dismisses claims of second internet shutdown

In response to circulating misinformation about a second internet shutdown scheduled for January 19, 2026, the UCC labeled the claims as false and misleading. The commission emphasized the importance of relying on verified sources for information and warned that spreading misinformation could have legal consequences. Thembo reiterated the need for responsible digital citizenship, urging citizens to avoid sharing unverified information that could incite violence or disrupt public order.

Govt Maintains Social Media Restrictions

While general internet access has been restored, the UCC announced that restrictions on social media platforms and over-the-top (OTT) applications would remain in place until further notice. Thembo stated that these measures are intended to maintain public order and prevent the misuse of restored internet services. He warned that attempts to bypass these restrictions using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) could lead to legal repercussions.

Govt Maintains Social Media Restrictions

The decision to impose internet restrictions during the elections has faced criticism from various rights groups, who argue that such measures limit free expression and access to information. The UCC maintains that these actions were necessary to protect national stability during a politically sensitive time. Critics assert that the government's approach undermines democratic principles and restricts citizens' rights to information.

Govt Maintains Social Media Restrictions

Discrepancies have emerged regarding the reasons for the internet shutdown. While the UCC attributed the suspension to security concerns, Uganda's Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, suggested that a damaged internet cable was the cause of the outage, a claim that remains unverified. This inconsistency highlights the need for clearer communication from authorities regarding such critical issues.

Uganda restores partial internet access days after election blackout

• “The internet is a powerful tool for development, education, business, and staying connected with loved ones — let us use it to build, not to destroy,” — Nyombi Thembo, UCC Executive Director

Uganda Restores Public Internet as UCC Urges Responsible Use

• “Avoid sharing or amplifying unverified information, hate speech, inflammatory content, or anything that could incite violence or disturb the peace we have all worked to preserve. Freedom comes with responsibility.” — Nyombi Thembo, UCC Executive Director

Uganda Restores Public Internet as UCC Urges Responsible Use

• “We are committed to balancing national security with the legitimate needs of the public.” — Nyombi Thembo, UCC Executive Director

Govt Maintains Social Media Restrictions

• “Topics You Might Like “Those who use VPNs to incite violence, hate speech, or spread misinformation will not be tolerated.” — Nyombi Thembo, UCC Executive Director

Govt Maintains Social Media Restrictions

The UCC's actions and statements reflect an ongoing effort to navigate the complexities of maintaining national security while ensuring citizens' access to information in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Govt Maintains Social Media Restrictions