Global internet observatory NetBlocks has confirmed a nationwide disruption of internet services in Uganda just days before the country heads to the polls.
On Tuesday, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) announced the suspension of public internet access and restrictions on some mobile services ahead of the general elections.
The shutdown took effect on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 6:00 pm and will remain in force until further notice.
NetBlocks reported that live network telemetry shows a “nation-scale” decline in connectivity, consistent with the directive issued by the UCC.
“Confirmed: Live network data show a nation-scale disruption to internet connectivity in #Uganda; the measure comes days ahead of general elections and corresponds to a shutdown notice from the Uganda Communications Commission ‘to mitigate the rapid spread of misinformation,’” NetBlocks said.
The shutdown is expected to affect mobile and fixed-line services, as well as major social media and digital communication platforms.
Rights groups have condemned the measure, warning that blackouts during elections impede transparency, restrict freedom of expression, and limit independent verification of events on the ground.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) expressed concern over the UCC’s decision, noting that it comes amid reports of intimidation, arrests, and the suspension of permits for five non-governmental organisations as Uganda prepares to vote on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
“This decision comes at a tense moment, with credible reports of intimidation, arrests, violence, and the suspension of NGO permits,” KHRC said in a statement.
“KHRC warns that cutting off the internet may exacerbate the situation.”
The commission urged the UCC to reconsider its decision. It also advised Ugandan citizens, should the shutdown continue, to carefully document any incidents of electoral malpractice or security agency misconduct and, when appropriate, share the information with independent human rights organisations.
Observers and rights advocates have raised concerns over the trend of internet restrictions during elections in parts of the region.
While such measures are often justified on security grounds, critics argue they can limit freedom of expression and access to information.
Ugandan opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, criticised the government’s decision to impose a temporary nationwide internet shutdown.
He described it as undermining democratic processes and citizens’ freedoms.
In a social media post, Kyagulanyi expressed concern over the timing of the shutdown, framing it as a challenge to transparency during the electoral process.
Public reaction in Uganda has been mixed.
Some citizens view the shutdown as a restriction of rights, while others see it as a precautionary measure to safeguard the electoral process.
Leave a Reply