Uganda shuts down internet access before an election – again

Uganda’s government has again cut off internet access in the run-up to a national vote. The Uganda Communications Commission has ordered all service providers to suspend connectivity ahead of Thursday’s presidential election, repeating the blackout tactic used five years ago.

Authorities say such shutdowns are meant to maintain order, but rights groups and observers argue they block independent reporting, restrict opposition activity, and leave citizens in the dark at a critical moment. With little transparency around how long the suspension will last or what criteria will restore access, voters are left to navigate the election largely offline.