Ugandan authorities have restricted access to the internet and social media platforms ahead of Thursday’s presidential elections, raising concerns among civil society groups and election observers about transparency and freedom of expression.
Telecommunications companies in the East African country confirmed late Wednesday that they had received directives from the government to limit access to selected digital services as voters prepare to go to the polls. The move follows a familiar pattern seen during previous elections in Uganda, where authorities cited national security and public order concerns to justify restrictions on digital communications.
Local media reports indicated that popular social media platforms and messaging services were either partially unavailable or experiencing significant disruptions across major cities, including Kampala. Several users also reported difficulties accessing independent news websites.
The government has not issued a detailed public explanation, but officials have previously argued that such measures are necessary to curb the spread of misinformation, hate speech and election-related violence. Critics, however, contend that internet shutdowns undermine democratic participation and restrict citizens’ ability to share information and monitor the electoral process.
Opposition figures and civil society organisations condemned the move, warning that cutting digital access during elections could suppress dissent and limit real-time reporting of irregularities. International rights groups have also repeatedly criticised election-period internet restrictions in Uganda, describing them as disproportionate and harmful to democratic norms.
Uganda has a history of imposing digital blackouts during politically sensitive periods, including the 2016 and 2021 general elections. Analysts say the recurring use of such measures reflects broader tensions between state authorities and online civic engagement in the country.
Thursday’s presidential election is expected to be closely watched both domestically and internationally, amid concerns over electoral fairness, security and the broader political environment.
