The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has ordered a temporary suspension of public internet access and selected mobile services during the election period, effective from 6:00pm on January 13, 2026, ahead of Thursday’s presidential and parliamentary polls.
In a directive issued to all mobile network operators, UCC instructed telecom companies to halt public internet access as part of measures aimed at safeguarding national security and public order during the highly anticipated elections. The suspension is expected to remain in force throughout the critical voting and tallying period.
The regulator said the decision was taken in consultation with security agencies, citing the need to prevent the misuse of digital platforms that could undermine the electoral process, spread misinformation, incite violence or disrupt public order.
Telecommunication companies were also directed to suspend selected mobile services, although UCC did not publicly specify which services would be affected, a move likely to fuel concern among businesses, civil society organisations and citizens who rely heavily on digital connectivity.
The announcement marks a reversal from earlier assurances by UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo, who had publicly stated that there were no immediate plans to shut down the internet ahead of the elections, unless it was deemed a security threat.
Internet shutdowns during elections have become a contentious issue in Uganda, with critics arguing that such measures restrict access to information, hinder election observation and violate digital rights.
Supporters within government, however, maintain that temporary restrictions are necessary to preserve stability during sensitive political moments.
Uganda heads to the polls on January 15 amid heightened political tension, increased security deployment and growing scrutiny from local and international observers over the conduct of the elections and the broader civic space.
UCC has not indicated when full internet and mobile services will be restored, saying further communication will be issued depending on the prevailing security situation.
