Uganda to shut down internet ahead of Thursday election: Communications Commission

Uganda ordered an internet shutdown on Tuesday, two days ahead of elections in which President Yoweri Museveni will be a candidate against opposition politician Bobi Wine.

"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.

The government had previously pledged that the internet would not be shut down during the election, stating in a post on its official X account 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 (1500 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.