Uganda has once again moved to restrict internet access during a critical election period, following a directive issued by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to all licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
The temporary suspension, which took effect on January 13, 2026, at 6:00 pm, is aimed at maintaining national security and curbing the spread of misinformation and election-related unrest as per the commission.
In a circular by the regulator, the decision was made following a strong recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee.
Why the Internet Is Being Shut Down
According to the UCC, the suspension is intended to mitigate risks associated with the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and incitement to violence.
Authorities argue that these threats could undermine public confidence in the electoral process and destabilize national security during the highly sensitive election period.
Services Affected by the Suspension
Under the directive, operators are required to suspend several key services, including public internet access across all platforms.
This covers social media platforms, web browsing, video streaming services, personal email, and messaging applications.
The UCC has also ordered the suspension of the sale and registration of new SIM cards, as well as outbound data roaming services to One Network Area countries.
The restrictions apply across multiple technologies, including mobile broadband, fibre optic connections, leased lines, fixed wireless access, microwave radio links, and satellite internet services.
Operators have been warned that any failure to implement the directive will require a complete shutdown of their internet infrastructure, with non-compliance attracting severe penalties such as fines and possible license suspension.
Essential Services That Will Remain Online
Despite the sweeping restrictions, the UCC has outlined a strict exclusion list allowing limited internet access for essential national services.
These exclusions apply only to non-mobile internet services and are restricted to authorized personnel using secure and whitelisted systems.
Critical services allowed to remain operational include healthcare systems at national referral hospitals, core banking and interbank transfer systems, ATM networks, tax payment platforms under the Uganda Revenue Authority, and key government payment gateways.
Electoral Commission secure portals, voter verification systems, and results transmission networks are also exempted.
Other protected systems include utilities management such as electricity, water, and fuel distribution, as well as transportation and aviation control systems like air traffic control and railway signaling.
When Will Internet Services Be Restored?
The UCC states that internet services will only be restored after explicit written authorization, with a phased restoration plan to be communicated to operators. Until then, all restrictions remain fully enforceable.
While acknowledging the operational challenges posed by the directive, the regulator emphasized that the measures are necessary to safeguard public safety and uphold national stability during the election period.
The election that has attracted eight candidates is expected to be a tense battle between mainly the incumbent Yoweri Museveni and opposition leader Bobi Wine.
Eyes will be on Uganda as the pop star-turned politician and Co. attempt ot dethrone the long-serving Museveni.
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