Ugandan authorities have formally dismissed circulating reports suggesting potential internet restrictions during the upcoming January 15th general elections. The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) explicitly labeled these allegations as “mere rumors,” with Executive Director Nyombi Thembo confirming no official resolution exists to disrupt digital connectivity.
The controversy emerged after opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (popularly known as Bobi Wine) reiterated concerns that the government might implement internet blackouts to hinder opposition mobilization and vote monitoring. These apprehensions gained traction when Starlink, the satellite internet provider, limited services in Uganda following regulatory directives.
President Yoweri Museveni seeks to extend his four-decade leadership amid a politically charged environment reminiscent of the 2021 elections, which witnessed violent protests and a four-day internet blackout. The government has additionally imposed bans on live broadcasts of riots and “unlawful processions” to prevent tension escalation.
In preparation for potential disruptions, the National Unity Platform (NUP) opposition party unveiled an offline voting monitoring application named “Bitchart.” This Bluetooth-enabled technology allows sharing of election results and polling station documentation without internet access, addressing concerns about communication blackouts during critical electoral processes.
Museveni, who first assumed power in 1986, faces his strongest challenge from Bobi Wine amid ongoing allegations of electoral malpractice and intimidation that have characterized previous elections.