Uganda to shut down internet ahead of Thursday election

Uganda ordered an internet blackout on Tuesday, two days ahead of elections in which President Yoweri Museveni is seeking to extend his 40-year rule.

“This measure is necessary to mitigate the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud and related risks, as well as preventing of incitement to violence that could affect public confidence and national security during the election period,” the Uganda Communications Commission said in a letter to internet providers, verified by government officials to AFP.

There was no statement from the government on the shutdown. The officials said the authorities did not want to “own” the decision.

Uganda shut down the internet during the last election in 2021 — a vote that was marred by widespread allegations of rigging and state violence against the opposition, led by singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine, who is running again for the presidency.

The government repeatedly promised that the internet would not be shut down during the election, stating in a post on X on January 5 that “claims suggesting otherwise are false, misleading, and intended to cause unnecessary fear and tension among the public.”

The suspension was due to take effect at 6:00 pm local time (1600 GMT) and remain in force “until a restoration notice is issued”, the UCC said.

Essential state services were to be exempted from the ban, it added.

AFP

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