The Ugandan government has firmly denied plans for an internet shutdown Uganda during the upcoming general elections. Officials say these reports are false, misleading, and meant to stir public fear.
At a press briefing on Monday, Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, stated clearly that the government has not decided to cut internet access. The elections are set for January 15, 2026.
“The government has not announced, nor directed, any internet shutdown during the elections,” Zawedde said. She added that such rumors aim to create confusion and disrupt public order.
As political campaigns intensify, both online and offline engagement will likely rise. However, Zawedde warned that this surge has already fueled a spike in misinformation across digital and traditional media.
She stressed that ICT and media platforms play a vital role in democracy. Therefore, citizens and media must use them responsibly. To support this, the Ministry of ICT is working closely with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and other regulators.
Together, they have engaged broadcasters and media stakeholders nationwide to promote ethical reporting, professionalism, and accountability in election coverage. Officials emphasized that responsible media use helps maintain peace and national stability.
Moreover, they warned that anyone who shares unverified content or premature election results will face consequences. The UCC is actively monitoring both broadcast and online platforms to enforce communication laws.
The commission will issue further guidance through its Executive Director as Election Day approaches. In the meantime, the government urges journalists, media owners, and the public to rely only on official sources.
“Verify information before you share it online,” officials said. They specifically cautioned against spreading false alerts that tell people to close businesses or withdraw money due to alleged blackouts.
Critically, they confirmed that no agency has received orders to prepare for an internet blackout. Ugandans can expect ICT services to remain fully operational throughout the electoral period.
These services will continue to support a peaceful, transparent, and credible election process. The government believes open communication channels strengthen—not threaten—democratic integrity.
READ: Uganda Receives Final Ballot Papers Ahead of 2026 Elections
