By Micah Jonah
January 18, 2026
Ugandan authorities have partially restored internet services after President Yoweri Museveni secured a seventh term in office, extending his rule into a fifth decade, following elections that were rejected by the opposition.
Internet users reported that connectivity returned late Saturday night, though access to social media platforms remains blocked. Telecommunications providers said they were directed by the national regulator to restore services for businesses while maintaining restrictions on social media.
The Uganda Communications Commission said the shutdown was imposed to prevent misinformation and electoral-related risks, a decision that opposition figures criticized as an attempt to influence the electoral process, suppress dissent.
The electoral commission announced Museveni as the winner of Thursday’s election with 71.6 percent of the vote, while opposition leader, Bobi Wine received 24 percent. Wine has rejected the results, alleging widespread fraud.
Election observers from the African Union and regional bodies criticized the role of the military in the polls, condemned the internet shutdown, saying it restricted access to information, limited economic activity, undermined public trust in the electoral process.
Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is now expected to remain in office until 2031. Analysts say he is widely believed to be preparing his son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the current head of the military, as a possible successor.
Following the announcement of results, scattered protests were reported in parts of Kampala, including Magere, where Bobi Wine resides. Youths reportedly blocked roads, burned tyres before police dispersed the crowd with tear gas and made arrests.
Wine later said he escaped a military raid on his residence and went into hiding, while police confirmed protests had been contained, that suspects were in custody.
Government officials have denied allegations of torture and unlawful detention of opposition supporters, stating that those arrested would be processed according to the law.
