In a major directive affecting millions of citizens, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has ordered a temporary suspension of public internet access and selected mobile services starting from 6 pm on January 13, 2026, as the country prepares for its general election scheduled for January 15. The move, cited as necessary to curb misinformation and safeguard national security during the electoral period, has sparked intense debate locally and internationally.
What the UCC Directive Covers
According to the official order seen by media outlets, the UCC has instructed all licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Uganda to implement an immediate suspension of various services. These include:
- Public internet access — both mobile and fixed-line services
- Sale and registration of new SIM cards
- Outbound data roaming services to neighbouring countries within the One Network Area
The aim is to prevent the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and incitement of violence, which the Commission says could undermine public confidence and threaten national security during the election period.
The suspension affects not just mobile broadband (cellular) but also fibre optic networks, leased lines, fixed wireless access, microwave radio links, and satellite internet services. This broad scope means that ordinary users’ ability to browse the web, access social media platforms, stream video, or send personal emails will be blocked during this period.
Exemptions to the Suspension
The UCC’s directive isn’t an outright communication blackout. Certain essential services are exempt and remain operational to ensure stability of critical systems. These include services necessary for:
- Healthcare operations
- Banking and financial systems
- Government operations and administrative functions
However, access to these systems will be strictly limited and closely monitored to prevent misuse or efforts to bypass the shutdown.
Historical Precedent and Economic Impact
Uganda is not new to election-related internet disruptions. During the 2021 general election, authorities imposed a nationwide internet shutdown that lasted several days, affecting over 10.6 million users and causing significant economic losses estimated at around UGX 390 billion (equivalent to millions in US dollars). That shutdown placed Uganda among the top five countries globally in terms of the economic cost of internet blackouts.
Such shutdowns cut off access to digital services used for everyday communication, business transactions, journalism, education, and emergency response — illustrating the wide-ranging implications of restricting internet access in today’s connected world.
Government Rationale
While announcing the order, UCC officials emphasized that the measure is rooted in recommendations from the Inter-Agency Security Committee. The Committee highlighted that the proliferation of online misinformation and disinformation during politically charged moments can rapidly lead to unrest, instability, and misinformation-driven violence.
This rationale is echoed by authorities in other countries where internet restrictions during sensitive political events are seen — at least by officials — as a preventive security measure. In Uganda’s context, past elections have been marred by heated online rhetoric, including unverified claims about vote counts and real-time “results” broadcast before official announcements, complicating efforts to maintain public order.
Public Reaction & Concerns
The directive has prompted significant controversy. Civil liberties advocates argue that such broad restrictions hamper freedom of expression, block access to information, and limit citizens’ ability to engage in democratic processes — especially in an age where many voters depend on internet-based platforms for news and communication.
Opposition leaders and digital rights groups have raised alarm, warning that restricting internet access can suppress political participation and make it more difficult for observers to document and report irregularities. Critics also point out that shutting down public internet access can disrupt ordinary economic and social life, hitting small businesses, freelancers, students, and families who rely on connectivity for their livelihoods.
Confusion and Clarifications
Notably, prior to the UCC’s official announcement, there had been denials from government officials and the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance regarding a planned internet shutdown. In early January, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry described widely circulated rumors about a forthcoming blanket shutdown as “false and misleading,” emphasizing that digital platforms play a crucial role in democratic participation and should remain accessible.
Those statements underscored the complexity and confusion in the public discourse — with conflicting signals causing uncertainty among citizens and businesses about what to expect as the election drew closer.
Comparisons With Other Restrictions
In the run-up to the elections, other forms of digital restrictions have already been reported. For instance, Starlink satellite internet services reportedly restricted access following a UCC request, even before the January 13 directive, citing concerns about unauthorized service provision within Uganda. This move sparked criticism from opposition figures, who saw it as another layer of connectivity restriction amid growing election tensions.
Legal and Constitutional Implications
The legal framework that allows such communication restrictions stems from the Uganda Communications Act and related national security provisions. Supporters of the measure argue that the state has a responsibility to ensure peace and safety, particularly in politically volatile periods. However, critics argue that unsupervised shutdowns risk violating constitutional rights to freedom of expression and access to information.
International human rights organizations have long campaigned against internet shutdowns, contending that such actions disproportionately affect fundamental rights and can exacerbate mistrust in government institutions.
Looking Ahead
As Uganda moves through its January 15, 2026 general elections, the suspension of public internet access and selected mobile services will be closely monitored by citizens, civil society organisations, and international observers. The outcome of the elections — and the stability of the electoral process — may influence how long the restrictions remain in place.
The UCC has stated that the suspension will remain effective until a formal restoration notice is issued, but has not provided a specific timeline for when normal services will resume.
With communication channels limited, citizens are being urged to rely on official outlets for verified updates and to prepare for continued offline engagement during the election period — highlighting the growing intersection of technology, governance, and civil liberties in today’s digital age.