As Uganda approaches the general elections scheduled for January 15, 2026, the Internet Society Uganda Chapter (ISOC) calls for unrestricted and uninterrupted access to the Internet, including all social media and digital platforms.
This follows a directive issued by Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) on January 13, calling all licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), instructing them to temporarily suspend public interest access and select mobile services effective at 18:00Hrs.
Although UCC has not come out to publicly acknowledge this directive, the directive comes following past assurances from the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and UCC Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) that there are no planned shutdowns.
Previously, in 2021, Uganda experienced a 38-hour total blackout and over 600 hours of social media restrictions. However, this was not an isolated incident as similar blocks have been documented in the 2016 general elections. This pattern creates a chilling effect on the overall democratic processes and has far reaching consequences including negative impact on the digital economy.
The Internet Society Uganda Chapter expresses deep concern that this practice of deliberately disrupting internet access, particularly during critical democratic events like elections, are a threat to fundamental human rights and the integrity of democratic processes. Access to information is protected under Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Internet shutdowns significantly impact citizens’ ability to access information and to communicate freely. Any disruption constitutes a violation of these rights and stifles the freedom of expression guaranteed and promised to every Ugandan.
We also note that internet shutdowns present serious barriers to the growth of digital trade and broader economic development, undermining business continuity, and restrict opportunities for innovation in the country. Research indicates that the 2021 internet shutdown cost the Ugandan economy approximately UGX 390 billion ($109.7 million).
We firmly believe that a connected Uganda is a stronger and more resilient nation. The 2026 elections present Uganda with a vital opportunity to showcase its democratic maturity, digital leadership, and commitment to fundamental digital rights. We urge all stakeholders to embrace this moment and prioritize connectivity over control.
We firmly condemn any government actions aimed at throttling, blocking, or shutting down the internet. We believe that regulating the internet should never result in disconnecting a nation.
We call upon:
- The Government of Uganda: To recognize citizens’ rights to internet access as enshrined in the The United Nations Human Rights Council’s (UNHRC) 2016 Resolution on the promotion, protection, and enjoyment of human rights.
- The UCC: To maintain its regulatory independence and resist any orders that contradict its public mandate.
- Citizens, Civil Society, and the Media: To remain vigilant, use digital tools responsibly to share accurate information, and document any instances of network interference or disruption in real time.
- Internet Service Providers (ISPs): To be transparent and accountable in response to shutdown directives.