RismadarVoice Reporters
January 14, 2020
Ugandan authorities have shut down internet access nationwide, just two days ahead of the country’s general elections scheduled for Thursday.
The shutdown took effect on Tuesday afternoon, according to journalists and internet monitoring groups, amid heightened political tension as President Yoweri Museveni seeks to extend his nearly 40-year rule.
Internet monitor NetBlocks confirmed what it described as a nationwide disruption to connectivity, while Uganda’s Communications Commission earlier directed service providers to cut access, citing the need to prevent misinformation and incitement to violence. The commission said the restriction would remain in place until further notice.
President Museveni, now 81 years old, is widely expected to win a seventh term, as he maintains firm control over state institutions and security agencies. However, authorities appear to be taking no chances against his main challenger, Bobi Wine, a 43-year-old musician-turned-politician who has attracted large crowds despite repeated crackdowns on the opposition.
On Tuesday, President Museveni held his final campaign rally in the capital, Kampala, at the Kololo National Ceremonial Grounds. Thousands attended the event, with some saying they were transported into the city and provided free food.
International journalists were reportedly blocked from covering the rally, despite holding government accreditation. Some said security officers threatened them with arrest.
Human rights organizations and election observers report that hundreds of opposition supporters have been arrested in the lead-up to the vote. Another opposition figure, Kizza Besigye, who has contested against Museveni several times, is currently facing trial after being returned to Uganda from Kenya in 2024.
Uganda also shut down the internet during its last election in 2021, a vote that was widely criticised by observers over allegations of rigging and state violence, despite earlier assurances by the government that such measures would not be repeated.
Meanwhile, reactions among voters remain mixed. While some supporters say President Museveni has brought long-term stability to the country, others attending the rally said they were drawn mainly by the free food and expressed uncertainty about the future.
The elections will take place on Thursday amid tight security, international concern over press freedom, political repression, and electoral transparency.
