Uganda Orders Internet Shut Down Days Before Elections
Tensions have been high in Uganda ahead of the election, with the Uganda Communications Commission taking temporary measures before the polls...
✨ Key Highlights
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has ordered a temporary suspension of public internet access and selected mobile services starting 6pm on January 13, 2026, during the ongoing election period. This directive aims to curb misinformation and prevent incitement to violence ahead of Uganda’s presidential and parliamentary elections.
- The internet shutdown affects public internet access, SIM card sales, and outbound data roaming, with exemptions for essential services such as healthcare and banking.
- The UCC cited a recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee to mitigate online misinformation, disinformation, and electoral fraud.
- President Yoweri Museveni declared January 15 and 16, 2026, as public holidays for the elections, where he will face opposition leader Bobi Wine for the second time.
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Zambia Seeks IEBC Support for 2026 Elections as Uganda Shuts Down Internet - January 2026
A delegation from the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) visited Kenya's Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for a peer learning and benchmarking tour. This visit is to help strengthen Zambia's electoral process ahead of its August 2026 general election, especially after adopting a Mixed Member Proportional Representation (MMPR) system. In neighboring Uganda, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) ordered a temporary suspension of public internet access and selected mobile services. The directive, effective January 13, 2026, aims to curb misinformation and prevent incitement to violence during the country's presidential and parliamentary elections.
