Uganda’s Communications Commission (UCC) has directed a temporary suspension of public internet access and selected mobile services during the nation’s election period, citing national security and electoral integrity concerns.
In a directive issued on Tuesday, the UCC said the measure followed recommendations from the Inter-Agency Security Committee, which flagged risks related to misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and potential threats to public safety during the polls.
The suspension, addressed to all licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), covers public internet access, the registration and sale of new SIM cards, and outbound data roaming services to neighbouring countries.
According to the regulator, the move is intended to “reduce the rapid spread of online misinformation that could undermine public confidence and disrupt the electoral process.
The directive took effect from January 13, 2026, at 6:00pm and will remain in force until further notice.
During the shutdown, all non-essential internet traffic including social media platforms, web browsing, video streaming, personal email services, and messaging applications would be blocked.
Mobile broadband services such as cellular networks, fibre optics, fixed wireless access, microwave radio links, and satellite internet are also included in the restriction.
The UCC confirmed that essential services required for network monitoring and management would remain operational under strict exemptions.
Access would be limited to authorised personnel through secure channels using dedicated IP ranges and virtual private networks.
The regulator warned that any operator found abusing the exemption rules would face immediate suspension of the exempted services.
The directive highlights the Ugandan government’s broader security strategy for elections, which prioritises public safety, protection of critical infrastructure, and the operational integrity of communication networks throughout the electoral period.
